Naloxone

Category: pharmacological

Aliases: Narcan

Pharmacological Mechanism

Pure µ-opioid receptor antagonist — competitive blockade with no agonist activity. Reverses opioid overdose in seconds (IV) to minutes (IN). OTC nasal spray (Narcan) available in most US states without prescription; precipitates opioid withdrawal in opioid-dependent users.

Half-Life (t½)

IV: 1h, IN: 1h

Dosing Guidelines

• IV: Typical 0.4mg (Range: 0.4 - 4 mg)

Target Organ Systems

• nervous