Analgesics Flashcards
Explain what Opioid antagonists are used for:
Opioid antagonists work by competitively binding to opioid receptors in the brain and blocking the effects of opioid agonists. This reverses the effects of opioids, such as respiratory depression and euphoria
Short half life - always monitor patient!
Use for : Opioid overdose, dependency etc….
Examples: Naloxone & Naltrexone
List some serious side effects of Morphine
Respiratory depression (potentially life-threatening), hypotension, and urinary retention.
What is Morphine?
Opoid Analgesics for moderate/severe pain ie after surgery
Gold standard
Highly protein bound and crosses over slowly to CNS
How does Morphine work?
Morphine binds to mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system (CNS), altering the perception and response to pain. It also affects other receptors, contributing to its analgesic effects.
Expain pre and post synaptic effect of morphine
Pre: Inhibits neurotransmitter released (substance P & glutamate)
which causse reduced transmisson of pain signals from peripheral nerve to CNS
Post: opens K+ channels which causes and influx of K+ ions which cause hyperpolarisation. Hyperpolarisation makes it more difficult for a neuron to fire pain signals to brain
Acute effects of Opioid use?
Pain Relief: Immediate and effective.
Cough Suppression
Euphoria: Intense pleasure.
Respiratory Depression: Slowed breathing - can cause death
Sedation: Drowsiness.
Constipation: Reduced bowel movements.
Nausea/Vomiting: Common side effects.
Pinpoint pupils
Chronic effects of Opioid use?
Tolerance: Decreased effectiveness over time.
Dependence: Physical and psychological reliance.
Addiction: Compulsive use despite consequences.
Chronic Constipation: Persistent gastrointestinal issues.
Hormonal Changes: Reduced libido and other issues.
Mental Health Issues: Increased risk of depression and cognitive impairment.
Where are the opoid receptors found?
CNS, PNS and GI Tract
There are 3 classes:
mu (causes pain relief)
delta
kappa
