How should naloxone be administered in an emergency when an opioid overdose is suspected?

• A. Administer oral naloxone and wait for emergency services.
• B. Administer intramuscularly or via nasal spray and call emergency services.
• C. Wait for EMS to arrive before giving naloxone.
• D. Naloxone should not be used outside a hospital setting.

Answer: (B)

Naloxone works by rapidly blocking opioid receptors, reversing life-threatening breathing problems in an overdose. In an emergency, give the medicine using the quickest, simplest route available—either intramuscular injection or a nasal spray—and then call emergency services right away. Oral naloxone isn’t effective quickly enough in an overdose because it isn’t absorbed well and acts too slowly to reverse dangerous symptoms. Administering it promptly can restore breathing within minutes, while the person is transported to receive ongoing care and possible additional doses. Because the overdose effects can return as the naloxone wears off, medical monitoring is important, so don’t delay calling for help after giving the dose. Naloxone is intended for use by bystanders in non-hospital settings to save lives.