Opioid overdose

• Opioid receptors are G-coupled proteins where the highest concentration reside in the central nervous system.
• What are the 3 main receptor subtypes of opioid receptors?

  1. Mu receptors
  2. Kappa receptors
  3. Delta receptors
• Give 6 medicinal forms of opioids

  1. Codeine
  2. Tramadol
  3. Morphine
  4. Fentanyl
  5. Methadone
  6. Heroin
• When is methadone used?

  In Opioid addiction for weaning.
• What are three complications of Tramadol?

  1. Lowers seizure threshold
  2. Can causes serotonin syndrome
  3. Can precipitate delirium in older patients
• What are the 3 subgroups of opioid overdose?

  1. Recreational drug use
  2. Intentional overdose
  3. Unintentional overdose
• What is the classic triad of opioid overdose?

  1. Reduced consciousness
  2. Respiratory depression
  3. Miosis
• How do you treat opioid overdose?

  Involves the use of a competitive opioid receptor antagonist such as naloxone.
• When would you use oral naloxone?

  Opioid induced constipation.
• Aside from treatment, what else can naloxone be used as?

  Diagnostic tool
• What do you need to remember when administering naloxone?

  It acts quick but has a short half life so may need to give repeat IV boluses.