Opiate Overdose Flashcards
Define Opiate Overdose?
Taking more opiates than you should
What drugs are usually involved in Opiate Overdose?
Codeine Diamorphine Dihydrocodeine Fentanyl Loperamide Methadone Morphine
What are the risk factors for opiate overdose?
Mental Health Conditions
Alcoholics
What is morphine toxicity at a lower dose usually due to?
Hepatic Impairment Renal Impairment Hypotension Hypothyroidism Asthma (decreased resp reserve)
What is the epidemiology of opiate overdose?
The elderly are at greater risk because they are more likely to be on opiates
Heroin and morphine are responsible for most drug-related deaths
What are the presenting symptoms of opiate overdose?
Constipation (if chronic) Nausea and vomiting Loss of Appetite Sedation Craving the next dose Drowsiness (if acute overdose)
What are the signs of opiate overdose on physical examination?
Respiratory Depression
Hypotension and tachycardia
Pinpoint Pupils
What are the appropriate investigations for opiate overdose?
Toxicology Screen
Paracetamol blood level (should be considered in patients who have self-poisoned)
If in doubt, give a small test dose of naloxone
