Opioidmérgezés

Opioidmérgezés, often referred to as opioid overdose, occurs when a person takes too much of an opioid drug, such as heroin, fentanyl, or prescription painkillers like oxycodone. This excessive amount overwhelms the body's ability to process the drug, leading to a dangerous depression of the central nervous system. The most critical consequence is the slowing or cessation of breathing, a condition known as respiratory depression.

Symptoms of opioid mérgezés can include extreme drowsiness, confusion, pinpoint pupils, slow or absent breathing, pale and clammy skin, and a loss of consciousness or unresponsiveness. If breathing stops completely, it can quickly lead to brain damage and death due to lack of oxygen. The risk of overdose is particularly high with illicit opioids, as their potency and purity can vary unpredictably. Combining opioids with other central nervous system depressants, like alcohol or benzodiazepines, significantly increases the risk.

Immediate medical attention is crucial for opioid mérgezés. The overdose reversal medication naloxone, also known by its brand name Narcan, can be administered by emergency responders and even by laypeople in many areas. Naloxone works by binding to opioid receptors and blocking the effects of opioids, rapidly reversing respiratory depression. While naloxone is a life-saving intervention, it is a temporary measure, and medical evaluation is still necessary even after administration. Prevention strategies include safe storage and disposal of prescription opioids, public awareness campaigns, and access to addiction treatment services.