Opioid Misuse Flashcards
1
Q
Morphine is a natural opiate. Name some synthetic opiates.
A
Buprenorphine and Methadone
2
Q
What are some clinical features of opiod misuse?
A
- Rhinorrhoea
- Needle track marks
- Pinpoint pupils
- Drowsiness
- Watering eyes
- Yawning
3
Q
What are some complications of opiod misuse?
A
- Viral infection secondary to sharing needles: HIV, hepatitis B & C
- Bacterial infection secondary to injection: infective endocarditis, septic arthritis, septicaemia, necrotising fasciitis
- Venous thromboembolism
- Overdose may lead to respiratory depression and death
- Psychological problems: craving
- Social problems: crime, prostitution, homelessness
4
Q
What is the emergency management of opiod overdise?
A
IM or IV naloxone
5
Q
Name 2 harm reduction strategies for patients who misuse opiates?
A
Needle exchange
Offering testing for HIV, Hepatitis B & C
6
Q
How is opiod dependence managed?
A
- Patients are usually managed by specialist drug dependence clinics although some GPs with a specialist interest offer similar services
- Patients may be offered maintenance therapy or detoxification
- NICE recommend methadone or buprenorphine as the first-line treatment in opioid detoxification
- Compliance is monitored using urinalysis
7
Q
How long should detoxification last for patients in hospital or in a residential setting?
A
4 weeks
8
Q
How long should detoxification last for patients in community?
A
12 weeks
