Opioid Analgesics Overview
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT a primary assessment nurses should perform before administering nonopioid analgesics?

  • Respiratory Rate (correct)
  • Bleeding disorders
  • Kidney and liver function
  • Allergies
  • Why is it important to assess for concomitant medications before administering nonopioid analgesics, specifically acetaminophen?

  • To avoid exceeding the maximum daily dose of acetaminophen when present in combination products (correct)
  • To avoid duplication of the medications to prevent adverse effects
  • To check if those medications are not expired
  • To ensure that the other medications are not in the same family of drugs
  • Which patient population should generally NOT receive aspirin as a nonopioid analgesic?

  • Pregnant women
  • Older adults
  • Children (correct)
  • Individuals with liver disease
  • What is a key reason for understanding the mechanisms of action of nonopioid analgesics?

    <p>To practice medication use safely and effectively (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a crucial aspect of patient education regarding nonopioid analgesics?

    <p>The potential side effects and interactions, and the importance of using the medications as directed (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a primary concern when administering morphine sulfate to a patient with renal impairment?

    <p>Potential accumulation of the toxic metabolite morphine-6-glucuronide. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary use of codeine sulfate, as described in the provided text?

    <p>A cough suppressant. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are transdermal fentanyl patches NOT recommended for opioid-naive patients?

    <p>They pose a higher risk of respiratory depression in opioid-naive individuals. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following mechanisms is common to morphine, fentanyl, and oxycodone?

    <p>Inhibiting ascending pain pathways by binding to mu receptors leading to reduced pain signalling. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the benefit of using a controlled-release combination of oxycodone with naloxone, such as Targin®?

    <p>It provides dual therapeutic effects due to the combination of analgesic and opioid antagonist properties. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Compared to morphine, how is codeine rated in terms of its potency?

    <p>Codeine is less potent than morphine and shows a ceiling effect. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these opioids is the primary choice for managing opioid dependence during detoxification?

    <p>Methadone (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common reason that Fentanyl is not appropriate to be administered orally?

    <p>It has very low oral bioavailability and is not easily absorbed when taken orally. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary mechanism of action of methadone in providing pain relief?

    <p>Binding to mu opioid receptors, inhibiting ascending pain pathways. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended antidote for acetaminophen overdose if administered within 10 hours?

    <p>Acetylcysteine (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the mechanism of action of Naloxone (Narcan®)?

    <p>It acts as an antagonist, competing with opioids for opioid receptor binding. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a common adverse effect associated with chronic use of NSAIDs?

    <p>Gastrointestinal bleeding (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does acetaminophen primarily exert its analgesic and antipyretic effects?

    <p>By blocking pain impulses peripherally and acting on the hypothalamus. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant contraindication for the use of aspirin in children?

    <p>Risk of Reye's syndrome (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Based on the text, what is a primary advantage of using acetaminophen (Tylenol®) compared to NSAIDs for pain relief?

    <p>Acetaminophen carries a lower risk of gastrointestinal bleeding than NSAIDs. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a distinguishing characteristic of methadone's pharmacokinetics?

    <p>It is stored and slowly released from the liver, kidneys, and brain. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a defining characteristic of the potency of hydromorphone (Dilaudid) when compared to morphine?

    <p>1 mg of hydromorphone is equivalent to 7 mg of morphine (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the mechanism of action of NSAIDs?

    <p>They inhibit the activity of COX enzymes, reducing prostaglandin synthesis. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a recommended precaution when administering NSAIDs to patients?

    <p>Discontinue use one week before surgery. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key symptom that Feverfew has been traditionally used to treat?

    <p>Migraine headaches (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should someone be mindful of when using medications containing acetaminophen and other co-administered drugs?

    <p>They should be mindful of the acetaminophen content in the multiple medications, to avoid unintentional overdose. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is true regarding the use of Ibuprofen?

    <p>It can cause kidney impairment, edema, and gastrointestinal pain. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary therapeutic use of low-dose aspirin (81-325 mg)?

    <p>Cardiovascular risk reduction in adults with specific risk factors (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Morphine Sulfate

    A naturally occurring opioid drug derived from the opium poppy, used for severe pain management. Highly addictive and a Schedule I controlled substance.

    Methadone Hydrochloride

    A synthetic opioid analgesic, often used for opioid detoxification and severe pain. Can be effective for neuropathic and cancer pain but carries a high risk of addiction.

    Fentanyl

    A powerful synthetic opioid, available in various forms for severe pain management. High potential for misuse and abuse.

    Oxycodone Hydrochloride

    A semi-synthetic opioid similar to morphine, indicated for moderate to severe pain. Often formulated with acetaminophen or aspirin for enhanced pain relief.

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    Codeine Sulfate

    A naturally occurring opioid alkaloid extracted from opium. Less potent than morphine with a 'ceiling effect' (higher doses don't increase efficacy). Primarily used as an antitussive (cough suppressant).

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    Codeine Sulfate

    A natural opiate alkaloid, less potent than morphine. Acts as a mu receptor agonist, impairing the transmission of pain signals.

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    Fentanyl

    It is a synthetic opioid that effectively inhibits the transmission of pain signals by binding to mu receptors.

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    Oxycodone Hydrochloride

    It is a synthetic opioid that binds to mu receptors, inhibiting ascending pain pathways, resulting in altered pain perception and analgesia.

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    What's the first step before giving nonopioid analgesics?

    Before administering nonopioid analgesics, it's crucial to check for potential allergies to avoid adverse reactions.

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    Why assess for pregnancy or breastfeeding before nonopioid analgesics?

    Pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect medication choices and require careful consideration due to potential harm to the fetus or infant.

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    Why assess kidney and liver function before nonopioid analgesics?

    Kidney and liver function impact how the body processes drugs. Assessing these functions ensures safe and effective medication use.

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    Why assess for bleeding disorders before nonopioid analgesics?

    People with bleeding disorders may be at increased risk for bleeding complications with certain nonopioid analgesics, especially aspirin.

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    What's important when assessing medication history before nonopioid analgesics?

    Combined medications may contain acetaminophen, so assessing for this ensures the patient doesn't exceed the maximum daily dosage, preventing liver damage.

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    What is methadone?

    Methadone is a long-acting opioid used for pain relief and opioid use disorder treatment. It's stored and released slowly from the liver, kidneys, and brain, leading to a long half-life.

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    What is the half-life of methadone?

    Methadone's long half-life means it stays in the body for a longer time, typically 24-36 hours, compared to shorter-acting opioids.

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    What are some important considerations for methadone?

    Methadone is safe for patients with kidney problems, but it can cause irregular heart rhythms in some cases.

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    How does methadone work?

    Methadone works by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain and nervous system, reducing pain signals, leading to analgesia (pain relief), respiratory depression, and sedation.

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    What is Dilaudid?

    Dilaudid, also known as hydromorphone, is a potent opioid analgesic, much stronger than morphine.

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    What is Dilaudid classified as?

    Dilaudid is a Schedule I drug, meaning it has a high potential for abuse, addiction, and dependence.

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    How does Dilaudid work?

    Dilaudid, like other opioids, works by attaching to mu opioid receptors, leading to analgesia, respiratory depression, and sedation.

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    What is Naloxone?

    Naloxone is a pure opioid antagonist, the drug of choice for reversing opioid overdoses.

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    How does Naloxone work?

    Naloxone works by competing with opioids for binding to opioid receptors, especially mu receptors, effectively reversing their effects.

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    What is Acetaminophen?

    Acetaminophen is a common pain reliever and fever reducer, available without a prescription (OTC) and in combination with opioids.

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    How does Acetaminophen work?

    Acetaminophen's exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it's believed to block pain impulses and reduce fever by affecting the brain and body.

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    What are NSAIDs?

    NSAIDs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, are commonly prescribed for pain, inflammation, and fever.

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    How do NSAIDs work?

    NSAIDs work by blocking COX enzymes involved in inflammation, pain, and fever. They also affect the stomach lining and blood clotting.

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    What is Aspirin?

    Aspirin is a widely used NSAID, recommended for preventing heart attacks and strokes in high-risk individuals, but it's contraindicated in children with flu-like symptoms due to the risk of Reye's syndrome.

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    What is Ibuprofen?

    Ibuprofen is another common NSAID used for moderate to severe pain, especially after injuries or surgery. It doesn't have addiction potential, but it can cause side effects like kidney problems and stomach upset.

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    Study Notes

    Opioid Analgesics

    • Morphine Sulfate:
      • Naturally derived from opium poppies, a Schedule I controlled substance.
      • Used for severe pain, available in various forms (oral, injectable, rectal, extended-release).
      • Toxicity: Potential accumulation of morphine-6-glucuronide in patients with renal impairment, so hydromorphone or fentanyl might be safer alternatives.
      • Mechanism: Inhibits pain pathways by binding to mu opioid receptors, causing analgesia, respiratory depression, sedation, and cough suppression.
    • Codeine Sulfate:
      • Naturally derived opiate alkaloid, Schedule II controlled substance.
      • Less potent than morphine, with a ceiling effect (increased doses don't improve efficacy).
      • Primarily used as an antitussive (cough suppressant).
      • Mechanism: Acts as a mu opioid receptor agonist, blocking pain signals.
    • Fentanyl:
      • Potent synthetic opioid, Schedule II controlled substance.
      • Used for moderate to severe pain, available as injections, transdermal patches (Duragesic), and sublingual tablets.
      • High misuse potential, negligible oral bioavailability.
      • Effective for cancer pain management in opioid-tolerant patients, not recommended for opioid-naive individuals.
      • Mechanism: Targets mu opioid receptors, altering pain perception, increasing pain threshold, and producing analgesia, respiratory depression, and sedation.
    • Oxycodone Hydrochloride:
      • Structurally similar to morphine, indicated for severe pain.
      • Available as immediate-release and sustained-release formulations, often combined with acetaminophen (Percocet) or aspirin.
      • Controlled-release formulations combined with naloxone (Targin) for dual effects.
      • Mechanism: Acts similarly to morphine and fentanyl, targets mu receptors, inducing analgesia, respiratory depression, sedation.
    • Methadone Hydrochloride:
      • Synthetic opioid analgesic, used for opioid detoxification.
      • Also used for severe neuropathic and cancer pain.
      • Different dosages for pain vs. dependence treatment.
      • Unique Pharmacokinetics: Long half-life (24-36 hours) due to slow release from liver, kidneys, and brain, useful for patients with kidney issues.
      • Mechanism: Similar to other opioids, targets mu receptors, causing analgesia, respiratory depression, and sedation.
    • Dilaudid (Hydromorphone):
      • A very potent opioid analgesic.
      • 1 mg is equivalent to 7 mg of morphine.
      • Mechanism: Binds to mu opioid receptors for analgesia, respiratory depression, and sedation.

    Opioid Antagonist

    • Naloxone Hydrochloride (Narcan):
      • Pure opioid antagonist, used to reverse opioid overdose-induced respiratory depression.
      • Mechanism: Competes with opioid agonists at opioid receptors, especially mu receptors, and displaces them, reversing their effects (analgesia, respiratory depression, sedation) for around 60-90 minutes.

    Nonopioid Analgesics

    Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

    • Analgesic and antipyretic agent, commonly available over-the-counter and in combination with opioids.
    • Relieves pain and fever but has minimal anti-inflammatory effect.
    • Maximum daily dose for healthy adults is 4 g, lower for older adults or liver disease patients.
    • Monitor acetaminophen content in combination medications to avoid overdose.
    • Mechanism: Exact mechanism not fully understood, thought to block pain impulses peripherally and impact the hypothalamus.
    • Potential side effects: Rash, nausea, vomiting (less common).
    • Contraindications: Drug allergy, liver dysfunction, and G6PD deficiency.
    • Interactions: Dangerous interactions with alcohol and other hepatotoxic drugs causing severe liver damage.
    • Overdose: Acetaminophen overdose can lead to liver and kidney damage, treated with acetylcysteine.

    Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

    • Provide analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic effects.
    • Mechanism: Inhibit COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, affecting prostaglandin synthesis. COX-1 protects stomach lining. COX-2 is associated with inflammation.
    • Examples: Aspirin, ibuprofen, ketorolac.
    • Risks: Ulcerogenic, gastrointestinal bleeding possible. Have a ceiling effect; increasing dose may not enhance pain relief.
    • Contraindications: Caution in conditions increasing bleeding risk such as peptic ulcers, vitamin K deficiency, and rhinitis.
    • Additional considerations: Avoid after 32 weeks of pregnancy; discontinue one week before surgeries; can cause acute kidney injury (especially with dehydration).

    Aspirin/Acetylsalicylic Acid

    • Widely used analgesic, potentially used for cardiovascular health.
    • Low-dose aspirin (81-325 mg) recommended for increased risk of stroke or heart disease.
    • Caution in individuals over 70 or those at risk for bleeding.
    • Avoid in children with flu-like symptoms due to Reye's syndrome risk.

    Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)

    • Offers some anti-inflammatory activity and analgesic effect comparable to opioids but is not addictive.
    • Often used for moderate to severe pain, especially post-orthopedic injuries or surgery.
    • Limited use due to potential adverse effects in kidneys, edema, gastrointestinal issues, and nausea.
    • Not recommended for children; limit usage to 5-7 days due to potential kidney and gastrointestinal issues.

    Feverfew

    • Herbal product with anti-inflammatory properties, traditionally used for migraines, menstrual cramps, other inflammatory conditions, and fever.
    • Potential side effects: Gastrointestinal discomfort, altered taste, muscle and joint pain.
    • Interactions: May interact with aspirin, other NSAIDs, and anticoagulants.

    Nursing Implications (Nonopioid)

    • Assess for allergies, pregnancy/breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, bleeding disorders, and concomitant medications (particularly acetaminophen amounts).
    • Avoid aspirin in children.

    Key Considerations

    • Nonopioid analgesics offer pain relief without risk of opioid-related problems (addiction, respiratory depression). However, risks exist, especially with long-term use or overdose. Safe and effective use requires a clear understanding of their mechanisms, indications, contraindications, side effects, and interactions.

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    Description

    Explore the key aspects of opioid analgesics, including morphine sulfate, codeine sulfate, and fentanyl. This quiz covers their uses, mechanisms of action, and safety considerations. Ideal for students studying pharmacology or medicine.

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