NALOXONE

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Evzio

GENERIC NAME(S): NALOXONE HCL

Description: Naloxone is a pure opioid antagonist which blocks the effects of certain narcotics in the brain

Duration: 30-120 min depending on route; IV has a shorter duration than IM.

Pharmacokinetics:

Distribution: Crosses placenta.

Metabolism: Extensively hepatic via glucuronidation.

Excretion: Urine (as metabolites); elimination half-life: 0.5-1.5 hr (adult); 3-4 hr (neonates).

Uses

Used for:
- Emergency treatment of known or suspected narcotic (opiate) overdose
- Belongs to a class of drugs known as narcotic (opiate) antagonists. It works by blocking the effects of the narcotic in the brain

How to use naloxone injection

Always refer to your doctors instructions before taking this medication. Duration and dosage will be determined by your medical condition and its response to the medication. Make sure to take this mediciation in the prescribed amount and time period even after symptoms disappear. Discontinuing the medication before completion of treatment may cause incomplete treatment of condition. If Symptoms persist, consult your doctor
Beforehand, learn how to properly administer this medication and practice with a trainer device

Effects of this medication are rapid but not long lasting therefore immediate medical help should be sought after administration. If symptoms return, administer another dose using a new auto-injector evert 2-3 minutes until emergency services arrive. Inform the healthcare professionals that you have administered a naloxone injection

Side effects

- - - After being administered with this drug regular narcotic users may experience widthrawal symptoms such as:
      - body aches, fever, sweating, watering eyes, runny nose, sneezing, goose bumps, yawning, weakness, shivering/trembling, nervousness, restlessness, diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, stomach cramps, increased blood pressure, fast heartbeat
      - For babies younger than 4 weeks that have been regularly receiving narcotics
    seizures, crying more than usual, and muscle twitching/spasms.

Precautions

- - - Precautions:
      - Inform your doctor
        
        Allergy to the medication or any allergies
        
        Medical History of heart problems (such as irregular heartbeat, previous heart attack).
      - Should only be used when there is a clear need during pregnancy as it may harm an unborn baby. If you are planning to be pregnant or think you may be pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of use with your doctor.
      - It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. Before breast-feeding, consult your physician.
      Interactions:
      
      Taking multiple drugs may affect how medications work and/or cause unwanted side effects. List down all the medications you are taking and inform your physician and pharmacist. Do not take, discontinue, or alter any dose of medications without prior approval of your physician.

Overdose & Brands

- - - Overdose: If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.
      
      Notes
      
      The severity of withdrawal symptoms and how long they last depend on the dose of naloxone as well as the degree and type of narcotic dependence.
      
      Missed Dose
      
      Not applicable.
      
      Storage
      - Room temperature
      - Do not expose to light and moisture
      - Do not store in the bathroom
      - Keep all medications away from pets and children
      Check expiry date periodically & visually check product for particles and discoloration. Replace if these appear even before expiry date.

NALOXONE

Uses

Side effects

Precautions

Overdose & Brands

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