| Naloxone (Narcan) is the medication of choice that should be administered for the suspected opioid overdose with applicable symptoms. For example, the patient who injected heroin, who is awake, speaking, breathing adequately does not require the administration of Narcan. The patient above would need to be monitored for symptoms of respiratory depression but they would not require immediate airway management and Narcan. In many states Narcan is widely available for use by the general public. Families and friends of opioid users may have access to the medication. Early administration of Narcan for the suspected opioid overdose will increase the chance of survival but will not “fix” the underlying substance abuse problems. Further hospitalization and behavioral treatment is necessary. | |
