Accidental drug toxicity and overdoses are common medical emergencies. Knowing specific antidotes can save lives and is a core component of the nursing exam curriculum.
Essential Antidotes Chart
- Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) ➔ N-Acetylcysteine (Mucomyst)
- Heparin ➔ Protamine Sulfate
- Warfarin (Coumadin) ➔ Vitamin K (Phytonadione)
- Opioids (Morphine, Fentanyl) ➔ Naloxone (Narcan)
- Benzodiazepines (Diazepam, Lorazepam) ➔ Flumazenil (Romazicon)
- Digoxin ➔ Digoxin Immune Fab (Digibind)
- Magnesium Sulfate ➔ Calcium Gluconate
- Beta-Blockers ➔ Glucagon
- Iron Toxicity ➔ Deferoxamine
Exam Alert: For Magnesium Sulfate toxicity, monitor for missing deep tendon reflexes (patellar reflex), respiratory rate under 12/min, and decreased urine output before administering Calcium Gluconate.
