Naloxone

Question 1

What is the presentation of Naloxone?

Answer 1

0.4mg in 1mL

Question 2

What is the pharmacology and action for Naloxone?

Answer 2

An opioid antagonist.
Action:
1. Prevents or reverses the effects of opioids.

Question 3

List the PEI for Naloxone.

Answer 3

1. Altered conscious state and respiratory depression secondary to administration of opioids or related drugs.

Question 4

List the contraindications for Naloxone.

Answer 4

Nil

Question 5

List the precautions for Naloxone.

Answer 5

1. If pt is known to be dependent, may be combative post-admin of Naloxone
2. Neonates

Question 6

What are the routes of admin for Naloxone?

Answer 6

IM

IV

Question 7

List the side effects of Naloxone.

Answer 7

Symptoms of opioid withdrawal:

1. Sweating, goosebumps, tremor
2. Nausea and vomiting
3. Agitation
4. Dilation of pupils, excessive lacrimation
5. Convulsions

Question 8

What are the special notes regarding Naloxone?

Answer 8

1. Duration of Naloxone often shorter than opioid used, repeat doses may be required.
2. Naloxone reverses the effects of opioids with none of the other actions produced by other opioid antagonists when no opioid is present in the body. In the absence of opioids it will have no perceivable effects.
3. Naloxone should not be administered post-opioid associated cardiac arrest - maintain assisted ventilation.
4. Naloxone should not be administer following a head injury - maintain assisted ventilation if required.

Question 9

What is the onset and duration of IV Naloxone?

*Peak not listed

Answer 9

O: 1 to 3 mins
D: 30 to 45 mins

Question 10

What is the onset and duration of IM Naloxone?

*Peak not listed

Answer 10

O: 1 to 3 mins
D: 30 to 45 mins