Naloxone Hydrochloride
GENERIC NAME
Naloxone Hydrochloride
TRADE NAME
Narcan
DESCRIPTION
Naloxone is used to reverse the effects of narcotic overdose, including respiratory depression caused by both natural and synthetic narcotic analgesics.
HOW SUPPLIED
Prefilled syringe: 2 mg / 2 mL
INDICATIONS
- Complete or partial reversal of central nervous system depression, especially in cases of respiratory depression caused by narcotics and synthetic narcotic analgesics
CONTRAINDICATIONS
- Allergy or hypersensitivity to Naloxone
- Patients who have been intubated
MECHANISM OF ACTION
Naloxone reverses the effects of natural and synthetic narcotic agents, including respiratory depression, by competitively binding to opioid receptors in the central nervous system.
SIDE EFFECTS
- Flushing
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Can induce rapid withdrawal symptoms in patients dependent on narcotics (use cautiously and only when respiratory depression is present)
- IM administration has a longer onset of action compared to IV administration
AUTHORIZATION
EMT: Standing order (first dose only, IM/IN only)
AEMT: Standing order (first dose only, IM/IN only)
Paramedic: Standing order
DOSAGE
| Patient Type | Route | Dosage |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | IV/IO/IM/IN | 0.5 mg increments, titrate to respiratory sufficiency |
| Pediatric | IV/IO/IM/IN | 0.1 mg/kg, max 2 mg per dose; may repeat every 2 minutes, up to a total of 4 doses |
Administration Notes:
- Titrate doses to achieve adequate respiratory effort, rather than complete reversal of sedation.
- Use cautiously in patients who are opioid-dependent, as it may precipitate acute withdrawal symptoms.
- If given via the IM route, the onset of action may be delayed compared to IV administration.