What Is Naloxone?

What is Naloxone?

Naloxone is a fast-acting medication that temporarily reverses the effects of opioids on the central nervous system (CNS). It is primarily used to temporarily reverse opioid overdoses by restoring normal breathing when someone's breathing has slowed or stopped due to opioids. 

Key Points:

• Restores normal breathing in individuals experiencing respiratory distress from an opioid overdose. 

• Only effective if opioids are present in the body.

• Does not work for non-opoid substances or people without opioids in ther system.

• Not a treatment for opioids addiction, but an emergency intervention in overdose situations. 

What are Opioids?

Opioids are depressant drugs that slow down the body's functions and are sometimes referred to as "downers." They can be prescribed by doctors to manage pain or found in the unregulared drug supply, which can be dangerous and unpredictable. 

Opioids work by attaching to receptors in the CNS, altering how the body precieves pain and have an impact on mood and other bodily functions. 

They are commonly used for pain management, to manage opioid withdrawal symptoms, and to create feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and sleepiness. Some common examples of opioids include heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, and morphine. 

What is an Opioid Poisoning?

Opioid poisoning happens when a toxic amount of opioids attach to receptors in the CNS, disrupting the body's abaility to function normally. 

During an opioid overdose, excessive opioids overwhelm these receptors, leading to life-threatening effects, including:

• • Breathing that is slow, irregular, or stops completely.

  • Extreme drowsiness, unresponsiveness, or difficulty waking up.

How does Naloxone Work?

Naloxone works by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain and blocking the effects of opioids, particularly on breathing. it displaces opioids from these receptors, restoring normal breathing in individuals experiencing an overdose. 

Naloxone acts quickly, with effects lasting between 30 to 120 minutes, helping to reverse the life-threatening impacts of an opioid overdose by blocking opioids from affecting breathing. 

Is Naloxone Safe for Everyone? 

Yes, naloxone is safe for all ages.  It is not harmful and has no effect if no opioids are present in the body. If you suspect someone is experiencing a drug poisoning, it is always safe to administer naloxone. Continue giving doses if needed, but stop once the person is breathing normally.