GPT on Question 16, Sep 14

Naloxone (Narcan) rapidly blocks opioid receptors—especially the μ-opioid receptor—and displaces opioids such as heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, or methadone. This can restore breathing and consciousness within a few minutes. It does not reverse overdoses from non-opioid drugs, but it is generally safe to give if you are unsure whether opioids are involved.

Use naloxone when someone may have used opioids and:

• •Cannot be awakened or does not respond to shouting or a firm sternal rub
• •Is breathing very slowly, irregularly, or not at all
• •Has blue/gray lips or fingertips
• •Makes choking, gurgling, or unusual “snoring” sounds
• •Has pinpoint pupils, especially with the signs above

What a bystander should do

• 1.Call emergency services immediately.
• 2.Give naloxone without waiting: for a nasal device, spray one full dose into one nostril according to its instructions.
• 3.Provide rescue breaths or CPR as directed by the dispatcher; use an AED if available.
• 4.If there is no response after 2–3 minutes, give another dose using a new device. Potent opioids such as fentanyl may require multiple doses.
• 5.Once breathing resumes, place the person on their side and stay with them until help arrives.

Naloxone usually lasts only 30–90 minutes, sometimes less than the opioid, so overdose symptoms can return. It can also trigger sudden withdrawal—agitation, vomiting, sweating, or pain—but this is preferable to untreated respiratory arrest.