Naloxone belongs to a class of drugs known as opioid receptor antagonists. These medications actively compete with opioids for the receptors they target in the body.
Action and Effectiveness
Role as an Antagonist:
Naloxone binds to opioid receptors, blocking the effects of opioids and rapidly reversing their impact.
It is specifically effective in treating opioid overdoses but does not work for other types of drug overdoses, such as methamphetamine, cocaine, or Diazepam.
Safety: If mistakenly administered to someone not experiencing an opioid overdose, naloxone has no harmful effects.
Forms and Availability
Options for First Aid:
Naloxone is available in three forms for first aid use: pre-dosed injection, ampoule injection, and nasal spray.
These forms ensure flexibility in administering the drug quickly and effectively.
Naloxone Availability in the UK
Accessibility and Usage:
Naloxone is distributed across the UK, primarily in pre-dosed syringes or nasal spray, targeting individuals at risk of opioid overdose.
Training Importance: Training for individuals close to those at risk is crucial, enabling them to administer naloxone promptly when needed.
After administering naloxone, document the details and retain the used equipment for handover to Emergency Medical Services (EMS) upon their arrival.