GPT on Question 16, Sep 27

Naloxone is a fast-acting opioid antagonist. It binds strongly to opioid receptors—especially mu receptors—and displaces opioids such as heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, or morphine. This can restore the brain’s drive to breathe within minutes. It has no intoxicating effect and generally will not harm someone who has not taken opioids.

When a bystander should use it

Give naloxone immediately if an opioid overdose is possible and the person:

• •Cannot be awakened
• •Is not breathing, is breathing very slowly/irregularly, or is only gasping
• •Has blue/gray lips or fingertips
• •Has pinpoint pupils
• •Makes choking, gurgling, or unusual snoring sounds

If uncertain, use it—don’t wait for proof.

What to do

• 1.Call emergency services or have someone else call.
• 2.Give naloxone according to the device instructions—commonly one nasal spray into one nostril.
• 3.Start CPR or rescue breathing as directed by the dispatcher if the person is not breathing normally.
• 4.If there is no response after 2–3 minutes, give another dose using a new device; potent opioids such as fentanyl may require several doses.
• 5.Stay with the person. If breathing returns, place them on their side.

Naloxone often lasts only 30–90 minutes, shorter than many opioids, so breathing can stop again. Emergency evaluation is still necessary. It may cause sudden withdrawal—agitation, vomiting, sweating, or pain—but this is far less dangerous than an untreated overdose.