nalmefene Health Article

Generic name(s):

nalmefene

Brand name(s):

Revex

What is the most important information I should know about nalmefene?

If possible, before you receive nalmefene, tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, heart disease for which you take medication, or a history of narcotic (opioid) addition.

In an overdose situation, it may not be possible before you are treated with nalmefene to tell your caregivers about any health conditions you have or if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. However, make sure any doctor caring for your pregnancy or your baby knows that you have received nalmefene, and if you were treated for a narcotic overdose.

After treatment with nalmefene, you will be watched to make sure the medication has been effective and you no longer have any effects of the opioid overdose.

Tell your caregivers right away if you have any of these symptoms after receiving nalmefene: extreme drowsiness, weak or shallow breathing, chest pain or fluttering, or feeling like you might pass out. Some of these may be signs that you need to receive additional doses of nalmefene.

Less serious side effects may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, muscle or joint pain, chills, anxiety, or depression.

What is nalmefene?

Nalmefene reverses the effects of opioid (OH-pee-oid) medications, also called narcotics. Opioid effects include drowsiness, low blood pressure, and slowed breathing.

Nalmefene is used to treat a narcotic overdose or other situation in which opioid side effects may be harmful.

Nalmefene may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving nalmefene?

If possible, before you receive nalmefene, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• a history of addiction to narcotics;

• liver disease;
• kidney disease; or

• heart disease (especially if you take heart medications).

FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. However opioid medications are not recommended for use during pregnancy. Nalmefene may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby. If possible, tell your caregivers if you are breast-feeding a baby.

In an overdose situation, it may not be possible before you are treated with nalmefene to tell your caregivers about any health conditions you have or if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. However, make sure any doctor caring for your pregnancy or your baby knows that you have received nalmefene, and if you were treated for a narcotic overdose.

How is nalmefene given?

Nalmefene is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein or muscle. You will receive this injection in a hospital or emergency setting.

After treatment with nalmefene, you will be watched to make sure the medication has been effective and you no longer have any effects of the opioid.

What happens if I miss a dose?

This medication is given in an emergency situation by a healthcare professional, so you are not likely to miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Since nalmefene is given as needed by a healthcare professional, it is unlikely that you will receive an overdose of this medication.

What should I avoid after being treated with nalmefene?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity after you receive nalmefene.