What it means
These drugs attach to opioid receptors without switching them on, pushing opioids off. naloxonenuh-LOK-sohnA drug that blocks the effects of opioids at their receptors.Full entry reverses an opioid overdose within minutes; naltrexonenal-TREK-sohnAn opioid antagonist used to treat alcohol use disorder and to prevent relapse in opioid use disorder.Full entry helps prevent relapse in opioid or alcohol use disorder; methylnaltrexone treats constipation caused by opioids. A reversal can bring on sudden withdrawal and the return of pain.
For the nurse
After naloxone, keep watching breathing and alertness: its effect can wear off before the opioid's does, so sedation can return and repeat doses may be needed. Teach families of people who use opioids how to use naloxone nasal spray.
At a glance
| Drug class | opioid antagonist |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Narcan (naloxone); Vivitrol (naltrexone); Relistor (methylnaltrexone) |
| Also written | opioid antagonists, narcotic antagonist, narcotic antagonists |
Related terms
opioid analgesic
A strong drug that relieves moderate to severe pain by acting on the brain and spinal cord.
withdrawal
The physical and mental symptoms that occur when a person stops or cuts down a substance the body has come to depend on.
naloxone
A drug that blocks the effects of opioids at their receptors.
naltrexone
An opioid antagonist used to treat alcohol use disorder and to prevent relapse in opioid use disorder.