Which medication is an antagonist to opioids and can be used in cases of overdose?

Which medication is an antagonist to opioids and can be used in cases of overdose?

• A. Methadone
• B. Buprenorphine
• C. Naloxone (Narcan)
• D. Oxycodone

Answer: (C)

Naloxone, commonly known by the brand name Narcan, is an opioid antagonist that effectively reverses the effects of opioid overdose. It works by binding to the same receptors in the brain that opioids target, but instead of activating them, it blocks their action, effectively displacing the opioid molecules. This can rapidly restore normal breathing and consciousness in a person who has experienced an opioid overdose, making it a critical medication in emergency settings. In contrast, methadone and buprenorphine are both opioids used in opioid addiction treatment. Methadone is a full agonist, meaning it activates opioid receptors to relieve pain and suppress withdrawal symptoms. Buprenorphine is a partial agonist, meaning it partially activates opioid receptors but still has a ceiling effect, which reduces the risk of overdose. Oxycodone is a strong opioid used for pain management and can lead to overdose if misused. Naloxone’s role as a life-saving medication in the case of opioid overdose is paramount, which is why it is the correct choice in this scenario.

Naloxone, commonly known by the brand name Narcan, is an opioid antagonist that effectively reverses the effects of opioid overdose. It works by binding to the same receptors in the brain that opioids target, but instead of activating them, it blocks their action, effectively displacing the opioid molecules. This can rapidly restore normal breathing and consciousness in a person who has experienced an opioid overdose, making it a critical medication in emergency settings.

In contrast, methadone and buprenorphine are both opioids used in opioid addiction treatment. Methadone is a full agonist, meaning it activates opioid receptors to relieve pain and suppress withdrawal symptoms. Buprenorphine is a partial agonist, meaning it partially activates opioid receptors but still has a ceiling effect, which reduces the risk of overdose. Oxycodone is a strong opioid used for pain management and can lead to overdose if misused.

Naloxone’s role as a life-saving medication in the case of opioid overdose is paramount, which is why it is the correct choice in this scenario.