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Pharmacological interventions to treat or prevent opioid overdose
Summary of the evidence
In a systematic review, naloxone, nalmefene, and physostigmine emerged as effective in treating opioid overdose, whereas naltrexone showed evidence in preventing opioid overdose.
Opioid agonists were found to be effective in improving retention in treatment and in reducing illicit opioid use.
Evidence for a multidisciplinary approach involving harm reduction and addressing psychosocial barriers could be the topic of subsequent literature reviews.
Details
Note: this evidence summary is only valid for the outcomes, target groups, settings and substances/patterns of use described below.
