Opioid Overdose

Question 1

What are the CF of Opioid misuse / overdose? (8 things)

Answer 1

1. Drowsiness / LOC
2. Pinpoint pupils
3. Watery eyes
4. Rhinorrhoea
5. Blue lips
6. Yawning
7. Shallow breathing
8. Needle track marks

Question 2

What are the complications of Opioid misuse? (6 things)

Answer 2

1. Viral inf (bc needle sharing)
2. Bac inf (bc needle sharing)
3. VTE
4. Addiction
5. Social problems: crime / prostitution / homelessnesss
6. Overdose –> Resp depression / Death

Question 3

What are some examples of Viral infections you can get from needle sharing in Opioid misuse? (2 things)

Answer 3

1. HIV
2. Hepatitis B + C

Question 4

What are some examples of Bac infections you can get from needle sharing in Opioid misuse? (4 things)

Answer 4

1. Inf endocarditis
2. Septic arthritis
3. Septicaemia
4. Necrotising fasciitis

Question 5

What is the Emergency Mx option for Opioid overdose?

Answer 5

IV / IM Naloxone

Question 6

What is the Pharmacodynamics of Naloxone? (2 things)

Answer 6

1. Rapid onset
2. Short duration of action

Question 7

What does NICE recommend you give an Opioid addict to help them wean off? (2 things)

Answer 7

1. Methadone
2. Buprenorphine

Question 8

How can you monitor an Opioid addicts compliance to rehab meds?

Answer 8

Urinalysis

Question 9

How long should you keep an Opioid addict in an inpatient / residential rehab setting?

Answer 9

Up to 4 weeks

Question 10

How long after inpatient rehab should an Opioid addict continue rehab meds?

Answer 10

Up to 12 weeks