GPT on Question 16, Oct 1

Naloxone (Narcan) rapidly displaces opioids from opioid receptors—especially the mu receptor—and temporarily blocks their effects. This can restore breathing and consciousness after an overdose from heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, morphine, methadone, or similar drugs. It does not reverse non-opioid drugs, but it may still help when multiple substances were taken.

When a bystander should use it

Give naloxone whenever an opioid overdose is suspected, particularly if the person:

• •Cannot be awakened or is unusually limp
• •Is not breathing, is breathing very slowly/irregularly, or is making choking, snoring, or gurgling sounds
• •Has blue/gray lips or fingertips
• •Has pinpoint pupils or known/suspected opioid exposure

If uncertain, use it—naloxone generally will not harm someone who has no opioids in their system.

What to do

• 1.Call emergency services immediately.
• 2.Give naloxone according to the device instructions. For nasal spray, place the tip in one nostril and press the plunger; each device contains one dose.
• 3.Start rescue breathing or CPR if the person is not breathing normally; 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 several doses.
• 5.Once breathing normally, place the person on their side and stay with them until help arrives.

Naloxone usually works within minutes but may wear off in 30–90 minutes, before the opioid does, so the person can overdose again. It may cause sudden withdrawal—agitation, vomiting, sweating, or pain—but untreated respiratory arrest is far more dangerous.