3 Opioid Analgesics and Safe Use Free Online FlashCards

How do opioids reduce pain?

Opioids act on receptors in the nervous system to reduce pain perception.

When may opioid analgesics be appropriate?

They may be appropriate for severe acute pain, some postoperative or traumatic pain, and selected cancer-related or palliative pain. For many common acute conditions, consider nonopioid treatments first or alongside an opioid.

What is multimodal pain management?

It combines treatments with different mechanisms to improve comfort and function while limiting reliance on any one medication.

What should a comprehensive pain assessment cover?

Assess location, onset, character, intensity, pattern, aggravating or relieving factors, and effects on sleep and daily activities.

Why assess function as well as pain intensity?

Assess pain and function together, and check for adverse effects. A meaningful functional goal might be walking to the bathroom or sleeping for a longer stretch.

What is a central opioid dosing principle?

Use the lowest effective dose, individualized to the patient, medicine, and clinical situation. Consider factors such as tolerance, age, frailty, organ impairment, and other medicines.

Which opioid formulation is recommended for a new start?

For a new opioid start, CDC recommends immediate-release rather than extended-release or long-acting opioids.

How should opioid prescribing for acute pain be limited?

Prescribe no more than needed for the expected period of pain severe enough to require an opioid. Reassess persistent pain rather than allowing an acute prescription to continue automatically.

What is MME useful for, and what should it not determine?

MME helps compare opioid dosage across medications when assessing overall exposure and risk. It is not a dose-conversion instruction for switching opioids.

What is a safer approach to reducing long-term opioid therapy?

Collaborate on an individualized taper when reduction is appropriate. Except for an imminent life-threatening concern, avoid abrupt discontinuation or rapid reduction.

Which opioid adverse effects require particular concern?

Common effects include constipation, nausea, itching, drowsiness, dizziness, and urinary retention. Marked sedation and slowed or difficult breathing are more serious effects.

How do tolerance and physical dependence differ?

Tolerance is a changed response that may require a different dose for the same effect. Physical dependence can cause withdrawal if regular use stops suddenly. Neither alone establishes opioid use disorder.