Naloxane

dr.joan

Naloxane :

Trade names: Narcan

Class: Narcotic antagonist.

Pregnancy: (Category

Action:

• Block the action of narcotic analgesic by displacing previously given narcotics from their receptor sites or preventing them from attaching to opiate receptors.
• The duration of action of naloxone is shorter than that of the narcotic analgesic so the respiratory depression may return when the narcotic antagonist has washed off the body.

Uses:

• Respiratory depression induced by narcotics.
• Drug of choice when the depressant drug is unknown.

§ Diagnosis of acute opiate overdose.

Dose:

• By intravenous injection, 100–200 micrograms (1.5–3 micrograms/kg); if response inadequate, increments of 100 micrograms every 2 minutes; further doses by intramuscular injection after 1–2 hours if required
• CHILD by intravenous injection, 10 micrograms/kg; subsequent dose of 100 micrograms/kg if no response; if intravenous route not possible, may be given in divided doses by intramuscular or subcutaneous injection
• NEONATE by subcutaneous, intramuscular, or intravenous injection, 10 micrograms/kg, repeated every 2 to 3 minutes or by intramuscular injection, 200 micrograms (60 micrograms/kg) as a single dose at birth (onset of action slower)

Contraindications:

· Sensitivity to drug.

· Narcotic addicts since it will cause sever withdrawal symptoms.

· Neonates.

Side effects:

- Nausea, vomiting, sweating, hypertension, tremors.

- If used postoperatively: tachycardia, pulmonary edema, hypo or

hypertension.

Nursing considerations:

· Determine the etiology of respiratory depression.

· Assess & obtain baseline vital signs.

· Monitor respiration closely after the duration of action.

· Have emergency drugs & equipment available.

· If the patient is comatosed, turn him to his side to avoid aspiration.

· Maintain safe environment (side rails & soft support).