What is the maximum total naloxone dose according to the protocol?

• A. 2 mg
• B. 5 mg
• C. 20 mg
• D. 10 mg

Answer: (D)

Naloxone dosing is aimed at reversing life-threatening respiratory depression while minimizing withdrawal and other risks, so the protocol sets a ceiling on how much naloxone can be given in total. The maximum total dose is 10 milligrams. You titrate from a small, route-appropriate dose and reassess the patient’s breathing and mental status, repeating doses as needed but not exceeding the 10 mg cap. If there’s still inadequate ventilation after reaching that limit, you focus on airway support, ventilation, and rapid transport, and consider other causes or longer-acting opioids that might outlast naloxone. Remember that naloxone’s effect can wear off before some opioids, so continued monitoring is essential and re-dosing within safe limits may be considered if clinically indicated.