Home Naloxone

Naloxone

Presentation
  • 0.4 mg in 1 mL glass ampoule
Pharmacology

An opioid antagonist

Actions:

  • Prevents or reverses the effects of opioids
Metabolism

By the liver

  1. Altered conscious state and respiratory depression secondary to administration of opioids or related drugs
  1. Nil of significance in the above indication
  1. If patient is known to be physically dependent on opioids, be prepared for a combative patient after administration
  2. Neonates
Route of administration
  • IM
  • IV
Symptoms of opioid withdrawal:
  • Sweating, goose flesh, tremor
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Agitation
  • Dilatation of pupils, excessive lacrimation
  • Convulsions
Special Notes

The duration of action of Naloxone is often less than that of the opioid used,
therefore repeated doses may be required.

Naloxone reverses the effects of opioids with none of the actions produced by
other opioid antagonists when no opioid is present in the body. (For example, it
does not depress respiration or cause pupillary constriction). In the absence of
opioids, Naloxone has no perceivable effects.

Following an opioid associated cardiac arrest Naloxone should not be
administered. Maintain assisted ventilation.

Following head injury Naloxone should not be administered. Maintain assisted
ventilation if required.

IV Effects

Onset: 1 -3 minutes
Peak: n/a
Duration: 30 – 45 minutes

IM Effects

Onset: 1 – 3 minutes
Peak: n/a
Duration: 30 – 45 minutes

Quiz