Naloxone works as an opioid receptor antagonist, which means it binds to opioid receptors in the brain that are responsible for mediating the effects opioids. The whole process is rapid, often within minutes of inhalation and results in naloxone rapidly reversing the effects of opioid in the body. Naloxone has a short duration of action and while it rapidly reverses opioid effects, it may wear off before the opioids are completely eliminated from the person's system. Thus, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention after administering naloxone, as the risk of overdose recurrence remains.