Drug cards - Narcan & Activated Charcoal

generic name - narcan

Naloxone Hydrochloride

trade name - narcan

Narcan

drug classification - narcan

narcotic antagonist

supply - narcan

2mg/2mL ampule (may also be a prefilled syringe)

mechanism of action - narcan

displaces narcotic angelsic at opioid receptor in the CNS - reverses CNS respiratory depression induced by narcotics and synthetic narcotics

indications - narcan

coma of unknown origin, known or suspected narcotic-induced overdose and/or respiratory depression

contraindications - narcan

none, except known hypersensitivity (rare)

side effects - narcan

rare occurrence of hypertension if pushed to fast, ventricular fibrillation, tremors, seizures, nausea/vomiting

dosage - narcan (adults only, N/A for pediatrics)

2-4 mg IN spray or IM injection - per standing order/local protocols

special considerations - narcan

ineffective for CNS depressants other than narcotics, monitor VS and LOC often, as narcan has a short duration. May precipitate withdrawal symptoms in patients addicted to, but who have not overdosed on narcotics

route - narcan

IN spray or IM injection

generic name - activated charcoal

Activated Charcoal

trade name - activated charcoal

SuperChar, InstaChar, Acticose

drug classification - activated charcoal

adsorbent, antidote

supply - activated charcoal

premixed suspension, bottled - 25-50g

mechanism of action - activated charcoal

binds and adsorbs ingested toxins in the stomach to prevent absorption of toxins until eliminated from the body

indications - activated charcoal

recent poisoning and/or overdose via ingestion

contraindications - activated charcoal

preexisting GI bleeding, patients who cannot protect their own airway and/or cannot swallow

side effects - activated charcoal

nausea/vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, dark stools, potential airway compromise/risk of aspiration

adult dosage - activated charcoal

1g/kg or 25-50g

pediatric dosage - activated charcoal

1g/kg or 12.5-25g

route - activated charcoal

oral suspension - swallowed/ingested

special considerations - activated charcoal

anticipate vomiting and monitor airway closely - be prepared to suction airway if necessary. Patient may be reluctant to drink solution

activated charcoal is _____ in the local EMS system

not used