Ontario Paramedic Practice Exam

What are the contraindications of administering naloxone?

1. Hypertension

2. Respiratory distress

3. Allergy or sensitivity to naloxone

4. Untreated hypotension

The correct answer is: Allergy or sensitivity to naloxone

Administering naloxone, an opioid antagonist, is primarily done in cases of suspected opioid overdose. One of the key contraindications for its use is an allergy or sensitivity to naloxone itself. If a patient has a known allergy or a severe sensitivity to naloxone, administering the drug could lead to adverse reactions, which may exacerbate the patient's condition rather than improve it. In the case of the other options, hypertension and untreated hypotension do not pose direct contraindications for naloxone use, as naloxone does not negatively impact blood pressure signaling in a way that would create a significant risk. Respiratory distress in an overdose context is often a reason for administering naloxone rather than a contraindication, since naloxone is used to reverse the effects of opioids, including respiratory depression. Thus, the critical point regarding the contraindication is the potential for an allergic reaction, highlighting the importance of patient history regarding sensitivities to the medication.