What is the purpose of using antidotes in poisoning cases?

The purpose of using antidotes in poisoning cases is primarily to neutralize the effects of the poison. Antidotes work by either counteracting the specific biochemical pathways affected by the poison or by binding to the toxic substance, thereby preventing it from exerting its harmful effects on the body. For example, in cases of opioid overdose, naloxone acts as an opioid antagonist that displaces the opioid from the receptor, effectively reversing its effects and restoring normal respiratory function.

The other options do not accurately reflect the role of antidotes. Enhancing the absorption of poisons contradicts the fundamental goal of preventing toxicity, while preventing detoxification would allow the poison to persist and worsen the situation. Increasing the toxicity of a substance would also be contrary to the purpose of using an antidote, which is to mitigate harm rather than amplify it.