Questions and Answers
What is a potential consequence of the repeated administration of opioids?
Which class of drugs is primarily recommended for managing neuropathic pain?
What is a preferred form of analgesic during a migraine attack due to reduced peristalsis?
What is a contraindicated condition for the use of triptans and ergotamine in migraine treatments?
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Which side effect is most common during the initial stages of opioid treatment?
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Which of the following statements about paracetamol is true?
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What is the maximum amount of paracetamol an adult should take in 24 hours?
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Which of the following combinations includes an opioid analgesic?
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What potential side effect can result from low-dose opioid analgesics in compound preparations?
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Which of the following trade names is for paracetamol combined with caffeine and codeine?
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Study Notes
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
- Refer to chapter Nine for comprehensive details on NSAIDs.
Paracetamol
- Exhibits analgesic and antipyretic properties; lacks anti-inflammatory effects.
- Safe for use in children; however, overdosing can lead to severe hepatic damage.
- Recommended maximum dosage: 1g (typically 2 tablets of 500mg) at once; not exceeding 8 tablets (4g) in 24 hours.
- Compound analgesics with paracetamol (e.g., 8mg codeine phosphate) are common, but benefits are unproven.
- Low opioid doses in compounds can lead to side effects like constipation and complicate overdose treatment.
- Various trade names include Panadol, Algesic®, and Saridon, with multiple dosage forms (tablets, capsules, syrup).
Opioid Analgesics
- Primarily for moderate pain; repeat use can result in dependence and tolerance.
- Codeine and dextropropoxyphene treat less severe pain, often combined with non-opioid analgesics.
- Morphine indicated for severe acute/chronic pain, including cancer pain.
- Tramadol has a lower incidence of typical opioid side effects but is subject to misuse.
- Common side effects: nausea, vomiting (especially initially), and constipation.
- Use caution with patients with respiratory issues (e.g., COPD, asthma).
Neuropathic Pain
- Results from damage to neural tissue; typically managed with tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline) or antiepileptic drugs (e.g., carbamazepine, gabapentin, pregabalin).
- Opioid analgesics may also provide relief for neuropathic pain.
Antimigraine Drugs
- Acute migraine treatment varies based on prior responses and attack severity.
- Simple analgesics (aspirin, paracetamol, or NSAIDs) effective, especially in soluble forms due to reduced peristalsis during attacks.
- Concomitant antiemetics (e.g., cyclizine) may be necessary due to associated nausea.
- If simple analgesics fail, specific treatments (e.g., triptans like sumatriptan) are utilized.
- Avoid ergotamine due to significant side effects and contraindications in ischemic heart disease.
- Strict adherence to maximum recommended ergotamine doses is crucial to prevent overdose.
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Description
This quiz covers key concepts related to analgesics, particularly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and paracetamol. Learn about their effects, dosage guidelines, and important safety information. Perfect for students studying pharmacology or healthcare professionals.
