Key points

  • We recommend do consult your poison centre with the use of this antidote.
  • Naloxone is not recommended for in-hospital use when patients are intubated or during cardiac arrest due to an opioid.
  • The primary survey(evaluation of the airway, the breathing and the circulation) should be prioritized over the administration of naloxone.
  • Pain and other sensory stimuli can stimulate breathing and incorrectly suggest that the effect of the opioid has worn off. Caution is recommended in such cases.
  • Community pharmacists may be authorized to provide naloxone for the treatment of overdoses in some provinces.

Last updated : 2022-12-13