Flumazenil (Romazicon) is the antidote for overdose of which drug class?

• A. Benzodiazepines
• B. Opioids
• C. Acetaminophen
• D. Digoxin

Answer: (A)

Flumazenil reverses benzodiazepine effects by acting as a competitive antagonist at the benzodiazepine binding site on the GABA-A receptor. By occupying that site, it blocks the sedative and respiratory-depressant actions of benzodiazepines, rapidly reversing overdose symptoms. It’s specific to benzodiazepines and isn’t effective for overdoses from opioids, acetaminophen, or digoxin—those have different antidotes (naloxone, N-acetylcysteine, and digoxin immune Fab, respectively). Use with caution, because it can trigger seizures or withdrawal in people who are benzodiazepine-dependent or have mixed overdoses, and its effect is relatively short, sometimes needing repeat dosing.