case study 1

Question 1

What genetic characteristic of the mother contributed to the high morphine levels found in her blood and breast milk?

Answer 1

he is a ultra rapid merabolizer meaning she has multiple copies of the cyp2d6 gene, which is responsible for converting codeine into its active form morphine

Question 2

What are the potential risks to the infant associated with high levels of morphine exposure through breast milk?

Answer 2

respiratory depression. also lethargy

Question 3

How does the mechanism of action of codeine relate to the infant’s symptoms?

Answer 3

because codeine is an opioid analgesic that works on specific receptors in the brain which is also where the medullary respiratory centre this. therefore the neural pathways are inhibited and causing respiratory distress and ultimately the infant’S death

Question 4

What clinical actions could be taken to mitigate the risk of opioid exposure to a breastfeeding infant when a mother is prescribed codeine?

Answer 4

she could have gone through genetic testing before being prescribed the medicine