States Can Apply for Opioid Response Grants; Generic OUD Treatment Approved

States and territories can apply through Aug. 13 for a portion of $930 million in fiscal year 2018 grants to support prevention, treatment and recovery services for individuals with opioid use disorder. “This large new grant program reflects President Trump’s deep commitment to fighting the opioid crisis, and will provide extra support for the hardest-hit states,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar. “It demonstrates the emphasis we place on expanding access to treatment that works, especially medication-assisted treatment with appropriate social supports.” In other opioid-related news, the Food and Drug Administration yesterday approved the first generic versions of a buprenorphine and naloxone film applied under the tongue to treat opioid dependence. The medication-assisted treatment can only be prescribed by certified practitioners.