Poisoning/overdose:
Indications for: ZIMHI
Emergency treatment of opioid overdose, as manifested by respiratory and/or CNS depression.
Adults and Children:
<1yr: Pinch thigh muscle while administering; monitor inj site for residual needle parts and/or infection. ≥1yr: Inject IM or SC into the anterolateral aspect of the thigh (through clothing, if necessary) according to label instructions. All: may give additional doses (using a new syringe) every 2–3mins until desired response or emergency medical assistance available; continue surveillance. Repeated doses depending on amount, type, and route of administration of the opioid being antagonized may be required.
ZIMHI Warnings/Precautions:
Not a substitute for emergency medical care. Risk of recurrent respiratory and CNS depression. Seek immediate emergency medical assistance after the first dose. Have other resuscitative measures available. Known or suspected opioid dependence; abrupt reversal may precipitate acute withdrawal syndrome. Post-op use in pre-existing cardiac disorders; monitor. Elderly. Pregnancy. Nursing mothers.
ZIMHI Classification:
Opioid antagonist.
ZIMHI Interactions:
Caution with cardiotoxic drugs. Incomplete reversal of partial agonists or mixed agonists/antagonists (eg, buprenorphine, pentazocine); may require higher naloxone dose.
Adverse Reactions:
Nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness, elevated bilirubin; precipitation of severe opioid withdrawal.
Generic Drug Availability:
NO
How Supplied:
Single-dose prefilled syringe—1, 2
