Chemical Structure:
C19H21NO4 · HCl
Mechanism of Action:
Opioid Antagonism: Naloxone is a potent antagonist at mu, kappa, and delta opioid receptors.
High Affinity for Mu Receptors: It has a particularly high affinity for mu-opioid receptors, rapidly displacing opioids at these sites, which reverses opioid-induced respiratory depression and CNS depression.
Uses:
Opioid Overdose: Primary use is in the emergency treatment of opioid overdose, especially life-threatening respiratory depression.
Opioid-Induced Pruritus: Sometimes used to treat itching caused by opioids.
Postoperative Opioid Effects: Can reverse excessive effects of opioids used in surgery.
Side Effects:
Precipitation of Opioid Withdrawal: Can cause severe withdrawal symptoms in opioid-dependent individuals.
Cardiovascular Effects: Rarely, may cause hypertension, tachycardia, or arrhythmias.
CNS Effects: Agitation, tremors, and seizures have been reported in rare cases.