Naloxone (Narcan)
Mechanism of action
Opioid antagonist.
Competitive inhibition of the µ-opioid receptor. Does not have a significant effect if the patient has not taken opioids.
Indications and dose
Pharmacokinetics
Onset of action:
- IV: 1–2 minutes
- IM: 2–5 minutes
Duration of action: 30–60 minutes
Half-life of elimination: 1.2 hours
Metabolism: Hepatic
Elimination: Kidneys
Directions for administration
Can be administered intramuscularly if intravenous administration is not possible. Nevertheless, intravenous administration is recommended in acute cases.
Duration of action of some long-acting opioids may be longer than that of naloxone, so subsequent doses may be necessary.
Medicinal forms
Solution for Injection/Infusion (400 μg/ml)
- 1 vial = 1 ml (400 μg)
Side-effects
Dizziness, headache
Nausea, vomiting
Tachycardia
Hypotension, hypertension
References
