GENERIC NAME: NALOXONE - INJECTION (nal-OX-own)
BRAND NAME(S): Narcan
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to prevent or reverse the effects of narcotic pain relievers. It has also been used in the treatment of shock, alcoholic coma, schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease.
HOW TO USE: This medication is administered by injection into a vein or muscle. The dose may be repeated as needed or this may be continuously infused depending on your condition and the purpose it is being used. This medication must be used under close medical supervision so the dose can be adjusted to the response.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, stomach upset or drowsiness may occur. If these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: vomiting, sweating, tremors, breathing trouble, seizures, rapid/pounding/irregular heartbeat. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: heart problems, heart disease, been using any type of pain reliever for more than 2 weeks, allergies (especially drug allergies). This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy or while breast-feeding. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take, including: narcotic pain medications. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly.
NOTES: This medication can cause withdrawal symptoms in persons addicted to narcotic pain relievers.
MISSED DOSE: It is important that each dose be taken as needed. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered. Skip the missed dose. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) as directed for up to 24 hours. Check the expiration date on the label and properly discard of any unused medication after that time.
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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