Opioid Antagonist Training for Pharmacists

Question 1

Signs and Symptoms of opioid overdose

Answer 1

miosis (constriction of the pupil), shallow respirations, cyanotic skin lips or fingertips, hypotension, bradycardia

Question 2

What is the pharmacology of naloxone?

Answer 2

opioid antagonist

Caution: do not use with pregnant women

Onset: 2-5 minutes

Duration: 30 -90 minutes

Question 3

What are the dispensing considerations of naloxone?

Answer 3

1. pricing
2. 2 doses should be dispensed
3. follow state law when prescribing

Question 4

What are the various naloxone products?

Answer 4

1. narcan nasal spray (1 spray in each nostril)
2. Naloxone prefilled syringe
3. Evzio auto-injector