Final answer:
The drug used to reverse the effects of opioids in patients with obstructive sleep apnea is naloxone, also known as Narcan. It is an opiate antagonist that rapidly blocks opioid receptors, reversing respiratory depression from overdose, and is administered parenterally.
Step-by-step explanation:
The drug that can reverse life-threatening respiratory depressant effects of opioids, particularly in a patient with obstructive sleep apnea, is naloxone, commonly known as Narcan. Naloxone is an opiate antagonist that works by rapidly blocking the effects of opioids at their receptors in the nervous system. This action can effectively reverse the respiratory depression that typically causes overdose deaths. Although individuals who are not opioid-dependent will not feel analgesia or euphoria from naloxone, it has a crucial use in emergent situations where opioid overdose has caused severe respiratory depression. However, it is important to note that naloxone's duration of action is relatively short, and it must be administered via a parenteral route, typically by injection, which can sometimes prove to be a limitation in its use.
For individuals with central sleep apnea, additional treatments outside of naloxone may include the use of a CPAP machine, lifestyle changes, and possibly supplemental oxygen to maintain regular breathing during sleep. Treating sleep apnea effectively can often involve a multifaceted approach that addresses the other underlying health issues and promotes prevention strategies.