In opioid overdose treatment of choice is
**Core Concept**
Opioid overdose treatment involves reversing the effects of opioid receptors' activation, specifically the mu-opioid receptor, which is responsible for the analgesic and euphoric effects of opioids. The treatment aims to counteract the respiratory depression, sedation, and decreased consciousness caused by opioid overdose.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Naloxone is a specific opioid antagonist that competitively binds to the mu-opioid receptor, preventing the action of opioids at that receptor. By rapidly reversing opioid effects, naloxone increases respiratory rate and depth, improves consciousness, and counteracts sedation. Naloxone can be administered via intravenous, intramuscular, or intranasal routes, allowing for quick treatment in emergency situations.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Nalorphine is a mixed opioid agonist-antagonist that can cause withdrawal symptoms in opioid-dependent individuals, making it unsuitable for overdose treatment.
**Option B:** Methadone is a long-acting opioid agonist used for pain management and opioid substitution therapy, but it is not an effective treatment for acute opioid overdose.
**Option C:** Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist used for pain management and opioid substitution therapy, but it can precipitate withdrawal symptoms in opioid-dependent individuals and is not effective in reversing opioid overdose.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In cases of suspected opioid overdose, naloxone should be administered immediately, even if the patient is unresponsive or appears to be in a coma, as it can rapidly reverse life-threatening respiratory depression.
**Correct Answer: D. Naloxone**