NREMT Paramedic Practice

Which medication can reverse the effects of benzodiazepines?

1. Flumazenil

2. Atropine

3. Naloxone

4. Activated charcoal

The correct answer is: Flumazenil

Flumazenil is the specific medication used to reverse the effects of benzodiazepines. It functions as a competitive antagonist at the benzodiazepine sites on the GABA-A receptor, effectively counteracting the sedative and anxiolytic effects of benzodiazepines. By binding to these receptors without activating them, flumazenil can restore normal function in individuals who have overdosed on benzodiazepines, helping to mitigate symptoms such as respiratory depression and altered mental status. In contrast, the other options do not serve the same purpose. Atropine is an anticholinergic medication primarily used to treat bradycardia and to reduce salivation during surgeries. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist, used to reverse the effects of opioid overdose, and does not affect benzodiazepines. Activated charcoal is an adsorbent used in cases of certain overdoses to prevent absorption of the toxin but does not reverse the effects of any medication. This makes flumazenil the only appropriate choice for reversing the effects of benzodiazepines.