naloxone

noun

nal·​ox·​one na-ˈläk-ˌsōn 

: a synthetic potent antagonist of narcotic drugs (such as morphine and fentanyl) that is administered especially in the form of its hydrochloride C₁₉H₂₁NO₄·HCl

Note: Naloxone is administered by injection or as a nasal spray to reverse the effects of opioids especially in the emergency treatment of opioid overdose. It is also administered in combination with buprenorphine in the form of a dissolvable tablet placed under the tongue or a film placed inside the cheek to treat opioid dependence.

Examples of naloxone in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Or the rising availability of naloxone, a medication used to reverse an overdose? —Brian Castrucci, Forbes, 3 Dec. 2024

Texas State's naloxone distribution program's webpage also lists resources for recognizing signs of overdose and administering naloxone. —Lily Kepner, Austin American-Statesman, 22 Nov. 2024

The slight drop is partially accredited to the community distribution of naloxone, a medicine used to reverse the effects of opioids and stabilize breathing. —Jasmine Mendez, Los Angeles Times, 19 Nov. 2024

The health department also offers public training to teach people how to properly administer naloxone, and those who are interested can schedule a training by contacting the department, Kunz said. —Brennan Stewart, Baltimore Sun, 19 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

N-allyl + hydroxy- + -one

First Known Use

1964, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

naloxone

noun

nal·​ox·​one nal-ˈäk-ˌsōn  ˈnal-ək-ˌsōn 

: a potent synthetic antagonist of narcotic drugs (as morphine and fentanyl) that is administered especially in the form of its hydrochloride C₁₉H₂₁NO₄·HCl

Note: Naloxone is administered by injection or as a nasal spray to reverse the effects of opioids and especially in the emergency treatment of opioid overdose. It is also administered in combination with buprenorphine in the form of a dissolvable tablet placed under the tongue or a film placed inside the cheek to treat opioid dependence. Trademarks for preparations containing naloxone include Bunavail, Evzio, Narcan, Suboxone, and Zubsolv.