Antidote
A specific agent that counteracts a poison or medication overdose
Definition
An antidote is a substance that neutralizes, reverses, or counteracts the toxic effects of a specific poison, medication, or drug overdose. Timely recognition and administration of the correct antidote can be lifesaving.
Essential Antidotes
- Acetaminophen: N-acetylcysteine (Mucomyst)
- Warfarin: Vitamin K (phytonadione)
- Heparin: Protamine sulfate
- Opioids: Naloxone
- Benzodiazepines: Flumazenil
- Iron: Deferoxamine
- Lead: EDTA, Succimer, Dimercaprol
- Magnesium sulfate: Calcium gluconate
- Digoxin: Digoxin immune Fab (Digibind)
- Cyanide: Sodium thiosulfate, hydroxocobalamin
- Organophosphates: Atropine + pralidoxime
Nursing Considerations
Identify toxic exposure early; note dose, time, route, and coingestions and follow institutional protocols. Consult Poison Control (1-800-222-1222 in U.S.). Monitor continuously for rebound toxicity if the antidote half-life is shorter than the substance's.
NCLEX Relevance
Memorize antidote pairings. Know that some poisons (methanol, ethylene glycol) use fomepizole as antidote.