Next-generation single-dose antidotes for opioid overdoses

Fentanyl's powerful effects are long-lasting, and even tiny amounts of the drug can lead to an overdose. Antidotes, such as naloxone, do not last long enough in the body to fully counter the drug, requiring repeated injections. Now, scientists report that they are developing single-dose, longer-lasting opioid antidotes using polymer nanoparticles. The researchers will present their results today at the American Chemical Society Spring 2019 National Meeting & Exposition.