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Highlights & Basics
- Opioid overdose occurs when a person takes opioids in larger quantities than are physically tolerated.
- Signs include central nervous system and respiratory depression, miosis, and apnea.
- The patient's history from bystanders/friends/family can assist diagnosis.
- Initial treatment consists of ensuring adequate ventilation and consideration of the opioid antagonist naloxone.
- Patients should be monitored for resedation and antidote dose repeated if necessary.
Quick Reference
History & Exam
Key Factors
Other Factors
Diagnostics Tests
Treatment Options
Definition
Epidemiology
Etiology
Pathophysiology
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Citations
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Resuscitation Council UK. 2021 resuscitation guidelines. 2021 [internet publication]. [Full Text]
Williams K, Lang ES, Panchal AR, et al. Evidence-based guidelines for EMS administration of naloxone. Prehosp Emerg Care. 2019 Nov-Dec;23(6):749-63.[Abstract][Full Text]
Lavonas EJ, Akpunonu PD, Arens AM, et al. 2023 American Heart Association focused update on the management of patients with cardiac arrest or life-threatening toxicity due to poisoning: an update to the American Heart Association guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and emergency cardiovascular care. Circulation. 2023 Oct 17;148(16):e149-84.[Abstract][Full Text]
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