Definition
Levallorphan is an opioid antagonist, meaning it blocks the effects of opioid medications like morphine. It's used to reverse respiratory depression caused by opioid overdose. Think of it as a 'reset' button for the respiratory system when opioids have slowed it down too much. However, it also has some opioid agonist activity, meaning it can produce some opioid-like effects itself, although weaker. Because of this mixed action, it's used less frequently now than other antagonists. It's a complex medication with a specific purpose.