Reversal agents for anesthesia
Reversal agents for anesthesia
Reversal agents are medications that are given to counteract, or reverse, the effects of medications used for anesthesia. They are often used to help reduce the time it takes to recover from anesthesia. Some examples of reversal agents include:
- Flumazenil (Romazicon), a reversal agent for benzodiazepine anesthetics that are given in a vein (intravenously, IV), such as Versed that causes sedation, sleepiness (hypnosis), forgetfulness (amnesia), and unconsciousness.
- Naloxone (Narcan), which counteracts the effects of intravenous opiates (narcotics) that are used to relieve pain (analgesia). Naloxone must be used with care when an opiate is given for pain, because significant pain may be present when the effects of the opiate are reversed.
- Other reversal agents, such as edrophonium, neostigmine, or pyridostigmine, which are used to counteract the effects of certain types of muscle relaxants.
Credits
| Author | Ralph Poore |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | John M. Freedman, MD - Anesthesiology |
| Last Updated | March 21, 2006 |
| Last updated: | March 21, 2006 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Ralph Poore |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, John M. Freedman, MD - Anesthesiology |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.




