Used primarily as an opioid antagonist, it rapidly reverses the effects of opioid overdose by displacing opioids from their receptors in the brain. It is commonly administered in emergency settings to restore normal breathing and consciousness in individuals experiencing opioid-induced respiratory depression. Due to its life-saving potential, it is widely distributed to first responders, emergency medical personnel, and community-based overdose prevention programs. It can be given via intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous, or nasal routes, with nasal sprays enabling quick use by non-medical personnel. Also used in hospitals to manage postoperative opioid side effects and in diagnostic settings to confirm opioid dependence. Its short duration of action may require repeated dosing, especially with long-acting opioids.