What it means
An opioid antagonist: it pushes opioids off their receptorrih-SEP-terA structure on or in a cell that a specific chemical, such as a hormone or drug, attaches to in order to act.Full entry and blocks them, reversing an opioid overdose, including slowed or stopped breathing. It is given by nasal spray, injection into a muscle or under the skin, or IV, and it works within minutes. It does nothing in a person with no opioids in the body. A nasal spray can be bought without a prescription in the United States.
For the nurse
It wears off sooner than many opioids, so the client can stop breathing again: keep watching breathing and sedation after a dose, and repeat as ordered. It can bring on sudden withdrawal and severe pain in a client who uses opioids regularly. Teach families of people who use opioids how to give the nasal spray and to call emergency services.
Remember it
Naloxone says "No" to opioids.
At a glance
| Drug class | opioid antagonist |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Narcan, Kloxxado |
| Spanish | naloxona |
| Also written | Narcan, Kloxxado |
Related terms
opioid analgesic
A strong drug that relieves moderate to severe pain by acting on the brain and spinal cord.
morphine
A strong opioid drug used to relieve moderate to severe pain.
receptor
A structure on or in a cell that a specific chemical, such as a hormone or drug, attaches to in order to act.
substance use disorder
A condition in which a person keeps using alcohol or another drug even though it is causing them harm.