top of page
Search

Naloxone Hydrochloride: Chemical Structure, Mechanism of Action, Uses & Side Effects

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.


Hi! Your clicks on ads help us keep this blog going strong. If you like what you see, please consider clicking on any ads. Thanks for your support!

Hi! Your clicks on ads help us keep this blog going strong. If you like what you see, please consider clicking on any ads. Thanks for your support!

bottom of page