What is the primary antidote for opioid overdose?

Naloxone is the primary antidote for opioid overdose, as it is specifically designed to counteract the effects of opioid drugs. Opioids bind to specific receptors in the brain, which can lead to respiratory depression, sedation, and even death in high doses. Naloxone works as an opioid antagonist, meaning it competes with opioids for binding to these receptors. When administered, it displaces the opioids from the receptors, reversing the effects and restoring normal respiratory function.

The effectiveness of naloxone is particularly crucial in emergency settings, as it can act quickly to restore consciousness and normalize breathing in someone who is experiencing an opioid overdose. This rapid action can be lifesaving, especially since delays in treatment can lead to irreversible brain damage or death.

Other substances mentioned in the question do not serve the same purpose in the context of opioid overdose. For instance, dextrose is a glucose solution often used for hypoglycemia but has no effect on opioid effects. Flumazenil is a benzodiazepine antagonist and is used for reversing benzodiazepine overdoses but can precipitate seizures and is not indicated for opioid overdose cases. Calcium gluconate is typically used for treating conditions such as hypocalcemia and does not have