Naloxone

Naloxone (Narcan)

Category:

Miscellaneous

Description:

Opiate antidote

Indications:

Complete or partial reversal of narcotic depression, including respiratory depression
Diagnosis of suspected acute opioid overdose

Precautions:

Pregnancy category B
Physical narcotic dependency
Pre-existing cardiovascular disorders

Adverse Reactions (Side Effects):

CNS: seizures, tremulousness
CV: hypertension, hypotension, tachycardia, ventricular dysrhythmia
GI: nausea, vomiting
RESP: pulmonary edema
SKIN: sweating
MISC: reversal of anesthesia

Dosage:

Administered subcutaneously, intramuscularly, intravenously

Adult:
- Narcotic overdose (known or suspected):
  - SC/IM/IV 0.4-2mg initially, repeat at 2-3 minute intervals up to 10mg, if no response after 10mg reevaluate diagnosis
- Postoperative narcotic depression (partial reversal):
  - IV 0.1-0.2mg at 2-3 minute intervals to desired level of reversal; repeat doses may be required within 1-2 hour intervals
Child:
- Narcotic overdose (known or suspected):
  - SC/IM/IV 0.01 mg/kg initially, give subsequent doses of 0.01 mg/kg as needed at 2-3 minute intervals
- Postoperative narcotic depression (partial reversal):
  - IV 0.005-0.01mg every 2-3 minutes to desired degree of reversal

Consideration:

Duration of action of some narcotics may exceed that of naloxone; repeat doses as needed

Source: Operational Medicine 2001, Health Care in Military Settings, NAVMED P-5139, May 1, 2001, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Department of the Navy, 2300 E Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20372-5300