Naloxane
Trade names: Narcan
Class: Narcotic antagonist.
Pregnancy:
(Category B) 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).
