Naloxone
Brand: Narcan, Zimhi
No boxed warning on the current FDA label.
- Caution
- Precipitates acute withdrawal in opioid-dependent patients; effects can wear off before the opioid does, so call 911 and repeat dosing as needed.
- Storage
- Room temperature, protected from light; avoid freezing and extreme heat, and replace when expired.
Common side effects
- Sudden opioid withdrawal
- Agitation or irritability
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fast heartbeat
Key interactions
- Reverses only opioids: no effect on benzodiazepines or alcohol
- Precipitates acute withdrawal in opioid-dependent patients
Counseling points
- Give at the first sign of an overdose, then call 911
- A second dose may be needed if breathing does not improve
- Stay with the person until help arrives. Naloxone can wear off first
- Narcan nasal spray is available over the counter (Zimhi injection is prescription); keep it where others can find it
We ask 11 questions about Naloxone.Practice Naloxone →Test yourself on medications like Naloxone.Practice Medications →
High-yield study aid for exam prep, not a substitute for the package insert or a pharmacist’s dispensing reference.