Naloxone

Emergency Drugs

Emergency Drugs · Opioid antagonist

Naloxone

Dose

400 mcg IV bolus, repeat q1–2 min, max 10 mg; infusion 60% of effective bolus per hour

Use

Opioid overdose with respiratory depression.

Monitoring

RR, GCS, pupils — repeat as half-life is short.

Side effects

  • Acute withdrawal
  • Pulmonary oedema (rare)

Always confirm dose against your local formulary / BNF before prescribing.

WardRound

WardRound

Clinical Decisions in Seconds