Opiods - Weak Flashcards
What are indications for weak opiod use?
Mild-to-moderate pain
What are examples of weak opiods?
- Tramadol
- Codeine
- Dihydrocodeine
How are weak opiods metabolised?
In the liver:
- Codeine -> small amounts of morphine
- Dihydrocodeine -> dihydromorphine
What is the mechanism of action of weak opiods?
Act against mu receptors in the CNS. Activation of these G protein-coupled receptors has several effects that, overall, reduce neuronal excitability and pain transmission.
How do opioids cause respiratory depression?
In the medulla, they blunt the response to hypoxia and hypercapnoea, reducing respiratory drive and breathlessness.
How do opioids reduce sympathetic activity?
By relieving pain, breathlessness and associated anxiety, opioids reduce sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight) activity
What are the main opioid receptors?
- Mu receptors
- Delta Receptors
- Kappa receptors
What type of membrane protein are opioid receptors?
G-protein coupled transmembrane receptors
How does binding of opioids to opioid receptors dull pain?
Causes reduction of synaptic transmission
- Closing of presynaptic Ca2+ channels → hyperpolarization → reduced release of acetylcholine, noradrenaline, serotonin, glutamate, nitric oxide, and substance P (presynaptic inhibition)
- Opening of postsynaptic K+ channels → hyperpolarization (postsynaptic inhibition)
What are the two main mechanisms by which opioids relieve pain?
- Raise pain threshold
- Change in pain perception
Why do 10% of caucasian individuals find codeine and dihydrocodeine largely ineffective?
Possess a less active form of metabolising enzyme P450 2D6
What is the mechanism of action of tramadol?
A synthetic analogue of codeine - best classified as a ‘moderate’ strength opioid. Once made active, acts against:
- µ-receptor agonists
- Serotonergic pathways
- Adrenergic pathways
Due to Sertonergic and Adrenergic activity, acts as serotonin and norad reuptake inhibitors - contributes to effect
What are the therapeutic effects of opioids which act against mu receptors?
- Analgesia
- Slowed GI transit
What are side effects of mu receptor agonism?
- Respiratory depression with subsequent rise in CO2 (and possibly ICP)
- Vasodilation
- Constipation
- Miosis
- Bradycardia
- Strong addiction
- Euphoria
- Urinary retention/constipation
What are therapeutic effects of delta receptor agonism?
Analgesia