# AI tells a bystander to administer naloxone (Narcan) via inhalation for an opioid overdose, but the correct route is intranasal or intramuscular

- **ID:** `emergency/naloxone-inhalation-route`
- **Domain:** emergency
- **Category:** life_safety
- **Error Code:** `NALOXONE-ROUTE-ERR-001`
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 90%

## Root Cause

AI incorrectly assumes naloxone can be inhaled like asthma medication; FDA-approved naloxone formulations are intranasal spray (Narcan) or auto-injector (IM), not inhalation, because naloxone is poorly absorbed via lungs and inhalation may cause bronchospasm.

## Version Compatibility

| Version | Status | Introduced | Deprecated |
|---------|--------|------------|------------|
| naloxone_HCl_4mg_intranasal | active | — | — |
| naloxone_HCl_2mg_auto_injector | active | — | — |
| naloxone_HCl_0.4mg_IM_ampule | active | — | — |

## Workarounds

1. **Administer Narcan intranasal spray: insert nozzle into nostril, press plunger firmly; if no response in 2-3 minutes, give second dose in other nostril** (90% success)
   ```
   Administer Narcan intranasal spray: insert nozzle into nostril, press plunger firmly; if no response in 2-3 minutes, give second dose in other nostril
   ```
2. **Use auto-injector (IM): remove safety cap, place against outer thigh (through clothing if needed), press firmly until click, hold for 5 seconds** (95% success)
   ```
   Use auto-injector (IM): remove safety cap, place against outer thigh (through clothing if needed), press firmly until click, hold for 5 seconds
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **** — Device is designed for nasal mucosa; powder may cause choking or ineffective dosing (99% fail)
- **** — Naloxone is not formulated for aerosol; risk of contamination and unknown absorption (95% fail)