Independent pharmacies across the state will now be able to sell naloxone to their customers without a prescription.

Naloxone, also known as Narcan, is a medication that reverses opioid overdoses.

Governor Andrew Cuomo says improved accessibility to the medication is one of the top priorities of his fight to end opioid abuse in New York State.

"Heroin addiction has taken the lives of far too many New Yorkers, but today we are taking an important step forward in battling this epidemic,” Cuomo said.

"By making this lifesaving medication available in drugstores without a prescription, we are continuing to prevent needless tragedies from occurring and ensuring that all New Yorkers have access to this critical medication."

Last month hundreds of Duane Reade and Walgreen chain pharmacies began selling the remedy over the counter.

More From WIBX 950