Key information summary
Efficacy & effects
This medication is used to reverse respiratory depression caused by natural and synthetic narcotics such as propoxyphene and methadone, and narcotic antagonistic analgesics like nalbuphine, pentazocine, and butorphanol, either completely or partially. It also aids in the diagnosis and treatment of acute narcotic overdose. In other words, it is used to quickly improve symptoms of respiratory depression caused by narcotics and effectively respond to acute drug overdose situations.
Dosage
Naloxone hydrochloride is administered intravenously, intramuscularly, or subcutaneously. The fastest onset of action occurs after intravenous administration. 1) When overdose of narcotics is suspected or expected - The initial dose for intravenous injection is 0.4 to 2 mg. - If respiratory function is not favorably offset or improved, the intravenous injection may be repeated every 2 to 3 minutes. - If intravenous administration is difficult, intramuscular or subcutaneous injections may be considered.
Precautions
This medication is provided in a glass ampule injection form, and care must be taken when cutting the container to avoid glass fragments. Extra caution is necessary when used on children or the elderly. It should not be used in patients with allergies to this drug or its ingredients or a history of hypersensitivity. It is also safe not to administer to patients taking central nervous system depressants such as barbiturates or to those who have respiratory depression. Caution is advised when administering to patients with high blood pressure or heart disease, or those with impaired kidney or liver function. This medication can reverse respiratory depression caused by narcotic analgesics abruptly, which may result in side effects such as increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, nausea, vomiting, and liver function abnormalities. Caution is needed as pain may reappear or a state of excitement may occur after excessive dosing post-surgery. Patients with heart disease may experience cardiovascular adverse reactions such as hypotension, hypertension, arrhythmias, and pulmonary edema, requiring special attention. Seizures may rarely occur. After administration, emergency measures such as airway maintenance, artificial respiration, or cardiac massage may be needed, and the use of vasoconstrictors may also be effective. Adequate observation and care are necessary before administration in patients with cardiovascular diseases or those taking related medications. As the effects of narcotic analgesics may be prolonged, respiratory depression may recur, thus continual monitoring of patient status and repeated administration is recommended if necessary. While this medication alleviates respiratory depression caused by narcotic analgesics, it may also reduce pain relief, so it should be used cautiously, particularly in post-surgical patients. Caution is advised as acute withdrawal symptoms may appear in newborns of mothers suspected of narcotic dependence. The safety for pregnant women has not been established, and it should only be used when the therapeutic benefits outweigh the risks. It is advisable to avoid administration in breastfeeding women; if unavoidable, cessation of breastfeeding is recommended. Elderly patients require special attention such as reducing the dosage due to decreased physical function.
Side effects
Seizures, pulmonary edema, cardiac arrest