HOW DO OPIOID REVERSAL AGENTS WORK?
Opioid reversal agents are drugs used to treat opioid overdose. Opioid overdose can lead to decreased respiratory effort and possibly death. It can also lead to:
- Reduced heart rate
- Slurred speech
- Drowsiness
- Constricted pupils
If left untreated, opioid overdose can cause:
- Vomiting
- Absent pulse
- Loss of consciousness
- Death
Opioid reversal agents bind to the opioid receptors in the central nervous system, causing the rapid removal of any opioid drug bound to these receptors. Thus, they reverse the effects of opioid drugs, especially during opioid overdose.
HOW ARE OPIOID REVERSAL AGENTS USED?
Opioid reversal agents reverse opioid overdose. They may also be useful for chronic pain.
WHAT ARE SIDE EFFECTS OF OPIOID REVERSAL AGENTS?
Common side effects of opioid reversal agents include:
- Flushing
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Weakness
- Nervousness
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Body aches
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Fever
- Chills
- Goosebumps
- Sneezing
- Shortness of breath
- Runny nose
- Vomiting
- Itching
- Anxiety
- Back pain
- Insomnia
The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.
