Which of the following medications is associated with treating heroin overdose?

Naloxone is the medication associated with treating heroin overdose. It is an opioid antagonist that works by rapidly binding to opioid receptors in the brain, effectively reversing the effects of opioids, including heroin. When administered during an overdose, naloxone can quickly restore normal breathing and consciousness, significantly reducing the risk of death.

This medication is often given as an intranasal spray or by injection and is a critical intervention in emergency situations involving opioid overdoses. It is particularly important because of its ability to act quickly, which is essential given the potentially fatal nature of an overdose. Naloxone does not produce any effects when administered to someone who is not experiencing an overdose, making it a safe option for use in emergencies.

In contrast, the other medications listed, while they may have roles in the treatment of opioid addiction or other mental health conditions, do not serve as emergency treatments for overdose. For instance, naltrexone is used in the management of opioid dependence but does not reverse an overdose. Methadone is a long-acting opioid used for pain management and as part of drug addiction detoxification and maintenance programs. Alprazolam, a benzodiazepine, is primarily prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders, and is not effective