What is the antidote for toxic opioid reactions and how is it administered?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

• An opioid antagonist such as naloxone (Narcan) will be administered. Naloxone is available in
0.2 mg/mL, 0.4 mg/mL, or 1 mg/mL strengths. It may be administered undiluted or diluted; each
0.4 mg is administered IV push over 30 seconds every 2 to 3 minutes as needed. Repeat the dose
until the desired response is obtained. The IV route will provide the most rapid onset, but naloxone
might be given IM if an IV site is not readily present.
• Medications should not be initiated unless respirations are six or fewer breaths/min or the patient
is obtunded with pinpoint pupils.
• Keep in mind that the duration of naloxone is only 20 to 60 minutes when given IV; the duration of
the opiates might outlast the duration of the reversal agent. Monitor the patient closely for return
of respiratory depression.
• Keep in mind that when this drug is active, the patient will be in pain.