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Glossary of terms

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Naloxone

Naloxone is a narcotic antagonist that reverses the respiratory, sedative and hypotensive effects of heroin overdose. It can be injected intramuscularly, intravenously or subcutaneously. Sold in Australia under the trade name Narcan.

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Naltrexone

A drug that antagonizes the effects of opioid drugs. Its effects are similar to those of naloxone, but it is more potent and has a longer duration of action. It is prescribed to help people maintain abstinence after they have withdrawn (detoxified) from heroin or other opioids.

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Narcotic drug

A chemical agent that can induce stupor, coma, or insensibility to pain. The term usually refers to opiates or opioids, which are sometimes referred to as narcotic analgesics.

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Needle exchange

Provision of needles to intravenous drug users to reduce the transmission of infectious diseases by the repeated use and sharing of needles.

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Nicotine

The drug in tobacco smoke that causes addiction.

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