A member asked:

Why an opiod antagonist be used before, during or after a surgical procedure?

7 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

Recovery: An opiod antagonist would not be used before surgery unless a person arrived impaired with hypoventilation from too much narcotics they took at home. I do not believe it would be used during surgery either. Postoperative use would be reserved for possible narcotic effect on the patient's respiratory abilities on recovering from the anesthetic after completion of the operation.

Answered 8/4/2014

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Dr. Gerald Mandell answered

Specializes in Nuclear Medicine

Help with surgery: Frequent problem with abdominal surgery afterward, digestive system has tendency to shut down for several days, extending recovery time, increasing healthcare costs and time of hospitalization on per patient. Antagonist after surgery helps.Patients with long term opioid use may require antagonist therapy prior to surgery.

Answered 10/2/2013

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