Concerned with clarifying some of the more complex issues in drug abuse, the National Clearinghouse for Drug Abuse Information has prepared this special report on narcotic antagonists, particularly nalorphine, naloxone, cyclazocine, levallorphan, and pentazocine. Background information is provided through a summary of their history, legal status, and the opinions of authorities in the field. Significant research on the subject is presented together with major findings on various aspects of the problem. The pharmacology, chemistry, clinical effects, treatment, and patterns of use of the drugs are dealt with. Bibliographic references are also listed. (BL)