Bulgaria's health ministry has asked drug companies to make naloxone easier to get. The medicine can save a life in an overdose. Firms that hold licences for naloxone products must apply to have a maximum price set in Bulgaria, the ministry said.

Applications go to the National Council on Prices and Reimbursement of Medicinal Products. The aim is to make sure patients can get the life-saving treatment and are protected. The ministry points to the growing threat from fentanyl and other dangerous opioids.

Setting a maximum price needs fewer documents and a lower administrative fee than adding a drug to the positive list, the ministry said.

The Council's website explains which documents are needed and how to apply. Look under "Administrative services", then "Procedures for providing administrative services" – "Setting a maximum price of a medicinal product".

The ministry says it counts on the active role and social responsibility of the pharmaceutical sector. It says access to naloxone is part of the effort to respond better to overdoses of fentanyl and other opioids.

In April, the ministry said all emergency medical centres in Bulgaria now have naloxone. After a donation from two companies, the stock is more than 2,400 ampoules.