Opiate Overdose Flashcards
1
Q
How long does it take for physical dependence of opiates?
A
Few weeks of regular high-dose use
2
Q
How long does withdrawal take to onset from opiates?
A
12 hours
3
Q
Describe the symptoms of opiate withdrawal?
A
- Intense craving
- Rhinorrhoea
- Yawning
- Sweating
- Vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps
4
Q
Signs of opiate withdrawal from physical examination?
A
- Tachycardia
- Hypertension
- Mydriasis
- Facial flushing
5
Q
What is Mydriasis?
A
Pupil dilation
6
Q
Signs of Methadone use on ECG?
A
- QTc prolongation
- Torsades de pointes
7
Q
Describe the treatment of opiate overdose?
A
- Naloxone
- Opioid antagonist
- Can cause withdrawal in chronic abusers
- Can cause breakthrough pain in those using for pain management
8
Q
Describe the monitoing of naloxone?
A
- Shorter half-life than most opiates so requires multiple doses
- Should be monitored for 6 hours after last dose
9
Q
Name some rare complciations of naloxone therapy?
A
- Fits
- Ventricular arrhythmias
- Pulmonary oedema
10
Q
Clinical features of someone who has recently used an opiate?
A
- Miosis
- Reduced ventilation
- Hypotension, bradycardia
11
Q
Complciations of opiate use?
A
- Aspiration
- Respiratory failure
- Non-cardiogenic pulmonary oedema
12
Q
Presentation of opiate overdose
A
