The Sabex product is preserved with methylparaben and propylparaben and is not for intrathecal use. Naloxone is a pure opioid antagonist used to treat potential or known opioid overdose. The drug reverses opioid-induced respiratory depression, sedation, and hypotension. In combination with respiratory and cardiovascular support, naloxone is the drug of choice for treating any opioid overdose. Naloxone is also effective for relieving opioid-induced adverse effects such as pruritus and constipation.
Naloxone has no pharmacologic effects in the absence of opioids.
Reserve naloxone to reverse opioid-induced respiratory depression, sedation, and hypotension during this potential shortage. High doses of nalmefene can complicate pain management due to nalmefene's long half-life. The table below describes the dosing of nalmefene. January 29, 2001. January 29, February 13, March 15, and April 5 and 24, 2001.