For opioid overdose, which antidote should be administered?

Naloxone (Narcan) is the appropriate antidote for opioid overdose because it is specifically designed to reverse the effects of opioids. It works by competitively binding to the same receptors in the brain that opioids occupy, effectively displacing them and reversing their depressant effects on the central nervous system. Naloxone acts quickly, often within minutes, making it crucial for treating potentially life-threatening respiratory depression associated with opioid overdose.

The other substances listed do not have the same targeted effect on opioid overdoses. Pyridoxine is primarily used to treat specific vitamin deficiencies and certain types of seizures, while deferoxamine is an iron chelator used in cases of iron toxicity. Mucomyst (acetylcysteine) is an antidote for acetaminophen overdose, not opioids. Therefore, Naloxone is the clear and effective choice for reversing the effects of opioid toxicity.