What is used to reverse opioid overdose?

• A. Naloxone
• B. Naltrexone
• C. Flumazenil
• D. Activated charcoal

Answer: (A)

Reversing opioid overdose relies on a fast-acting opioid receptor antagonist that can displace opioids from the receptors and restore breathing. Naloxone is this agent. It binds strongly to mu-opioid receptors, displacing the opioid agonists, which quickly reverses the respiratory depression that dangerous overdoses cause. Because it acts within minutes and can be given by injection or as a nasal spray, it’s the go-to option for emergency reversal and layperson use in many settings. However, its duration is shorter than some opioids, so patients need to be monitored after administration and may require additional doses to prevent re-narcotization.

The other options don’t fit this use. Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist but has a longer onset and duration and is used for addiction treatment, not emergency reversal. Flumazenil targets benzodiazepine receptors, not opioid receptors, so it won’t reverse an opioid overdose and can cause harm if benzos are involved. Activated charcoal helps with absorption management after ingestion but doesn’t reverse established opioid overdose and isn’t a direct antidote.