What is a potential treatment for opiate overdose?

Naloxone is a medication specifically designed to counteract the effects of opioid overdose. It works as an opioid antagonist, meaning it competes with opioids for binding to the same receptors in the brain. When administered, naloxone can rapidly reverse the respiratory depression and sedation that result from opioid overdose, restoring normal breathing and consciousness in the affected individual. This makes it a critical intervention, especially in emergency situations where an overdose is suspected.

The other options do not effectively address the acute effects of opioid overdose. Benzodiazepines can further depress the central nervous system, which can be dangerous in the context of an opioid overdose. Stimulants might counteract some symptoms but do not address the life-threatening respiratory depression caused by opioid overdose. SSRIs are used primarily for managing depressive disorders and have no role in the immediate treatment of opioid overdose.