What is Naloxone and how does it function in overdose emergencies?

• A. An opioid antagonist that displaces opioids at receptors, reversing respiratory depression.
• B. A stimulant that increases heart rate to counter overdose.
• C. A benzodiazepine used to sedate.
• D. A vitamin supplement.

Answer: (A)

Naloxone is an opioid receptor antagonist that reverses opioid overdose by quickly displacing opioids from mu receptors and blocking their effects. Because it has no intrinsic activity, it reverses the dangerous respiratory depression and sedation caused by opioids without producing opioids of its own. It acts rapidly, often within minutes, and is commonly given by intranasal spray or injection, but its duration can be shorter than that of some opioids, so symptoms can return and repeat dosing with medical follow-up may be necessary. It may trigger withdrawal symptoms in people who are opioid-dependent, but it’s a life-saving intervention and will not reverse overdoses from non-opioid substances.