Use of Opioids

Question 1

How many Opioid receptors are there?

Answer 1

3
1) Mor
2) Kor
3) Dor

Question 2

Where are Opioid receptors mostly found?

Answer 2

Central Nervous System
(Also few in PNS, Vas Deferens, Knee Joint, GIT, Heart and IS)

Question 3

What are the Negative Effects of Opioids on each system?

Answer 3

Gastro: Constipation (slight Nausea)
Respiratory: Sleep disordered breathing -> central sleep apnoea, hypoxaemia, CO2 retention
CNS: Dizziness/Sedation -> Hyperalgesia
MSK: Increased falls and fractures risk
Endo: Affect APG hormone release, affect reproductivity hormones
Addiction and Drug Taking Behaviours: Misuse and drug taking behaviours

Question 4

What are side effects of long term opioid use?

Answer 4

Tolerance, Weight Gain, Withdrawal, ED, Irregular periods, depression, dependence

Question 5

What are some pharm and non-pharm ways to treat pain?

Answer 5

Pharm: NSAIDs, Paracetamol, Lidocaine patches, slow use of opioid
Non-Pharm: Wt Loss, Smoke Cessation, Exercise, Counselling, Occupational, Complementary Therapy

Question 6

What are key signs of Abuse and Dependency?

Answer 6

1) Use for other non pain related
2) Impaired control
3) Compulsive use
4) Continued use despite harm
5) Selling, altering, diverting prescriptions
6) Drug seeking behaviour