Naloxone CAS: 465-65-6 is a medication used to counteract the effects of opioid overdoses. It is also used in combination with opioids to reduce the risk of addiction and dependence. This medication is popularly known under brand name Narcan.
Chemical name: Naloxone is the generic name for a medication that is classified as an opioid antagonist. The official generic name is (5α)-17-allyl-4,5-epoxy-3,14-dihydroxymorphinan-6-one.
Molecular formula: The molecular formula for naloxone is C19H21NO4.
Formula weight: The formula weight for naloxone is 327.37 g/mol.
CAS No: The CAS registry number for naloxone is 465-65-6.
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Health benefits: The primary benefit of naloxone is its ability to reverse the effects of opioids in the body, such as slowed breathing, unconsciousness, and potential death. It is a life-saving medication in emergencies, especially in patients who have overdosed on opioids. Studies have shown that the use of naloxone can significantly reduce the risk of death from opioid overdose, making it an essential tool in the treatment of opioid addiction.
Potential effects: Naloxone works by binding to the same opioid receptors in the brain as the opioid drugs. It blocks the opioids' effects and reverses the depression of the central nervous system, including respiration, heart rate, and blood pressure. After administering naloxone, the patient may experience withdrawal symptoms, which can include agitation, vomiting, and sweating.
Product mechanism: Naloxone works by rapidly binding to the same receptors as opioids, essentially booting the opioid off the receptor sites to prevent it from continuing to stimulate the receptor. Once naloxone attaches to the opioid receptor, it immediately reverses the respiratory depression caused by opioids, restoring breathing and oxygenation. Additionally, naloxone can reverse the effects of multiple opioids, including fentanyl, morphine, and heroin.
Safety: Naloxone has been deemed a safe medication when used as directed; it is non-addictive and does not have any known interactions with other medications. Because of its safety, naloxone is available without a prescription in many places for use in an emergency. Although naloxone overdoses are rare, they can occur when administered in large doses or given too quickly, causing nausea, rapid heartbeat, and high blood pressure.
Side effects: The side effects of naloxone are generally mild and short-lived, including increased heart rate, sweating, and agitation. Patients may also experience withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, tremors, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, these symptoms subside quickly and should not cause any lasting harm.
Dosing information: The dosage of naloxone may vary depending on the patient, the severity of the overdose, and the opioid used. Injectable naloxone is typically used for severe overdose, and a dose of 0.4-2mg may be administered intravenously, intramuscularly or subcutaneously.
Intranasal naloxone spray is commonly used for outpatient or community use, and doses may range from 1-4mg per spray
