25 ANALGESIC DRUGS 1

Question 1

Three common methods for assessing the level of pain

Answer 1

Visual analogue scale, 1-10. Likert scale numeric scale with words to anchor number 1-7. McGill pain questionnaire, descriptive.

Question 2

Three non pharmacological methods

Answer 2

TENS
Acupuncture
Hypnosis

Question 3

Mechanism of action of opioids

Answer 3

Act on opioid receptors which a G protein coupled receptors. When bound cause conformational shape change and release of Gi protein. Acts as a second messenger which inhibits adenylate cyclase which in turn results in Ca2+ channels closing and K+ opening. Lack of intracellular Ca2+ means that neurotransmitters are not released (e.g. glutamate). The cell also becomes hyper polarised and is led responsive to AP.

Question 4

List the opioid receptors

Answer 4

Mu 1, Mu 2 and Mu 3. Kappa, delta

Question 5

What opioid receptor is responsible for analgesia

Answer 5

All of them

Question 6

What opioid receptor is responsible for respiratory depression

Answer 6

Mu 2

Question 7

What opioid receptor is responsible for euphoria

Answer 7

Mu 2