An antidote is a substance that counteracts the effects of a poison or toxin. It works by neutralizing the harmful effects of the poison, either by binding to it or by blocking its action in the body. Antidotes are crucial in medical emergencies, as they can save lives when someone has been exposed to dangerous substances. Different types of antidotes exist for various poisons, such as activated charcoal for certain drug overdoses and naloxone for opioid overdoses. Medical professionals often administer these antidotes in hospitals or emergency situations to quickly reverse the effects of poisoning and restore health.