Opioids & Opioid Overdose

Key points

• Opioid side effects: respiratory depression, constipation (tolerance does not develop), sedation, nausea, miosis.
• Opioid overdose triad: respiratory depression · pinpoint pupils · reduced consciousness.
• Naloxone: competitive opioid antagonist — short half-life, may need repeat dosing/infusion (long-acting opioids).
• Constipation prophylaxis: stimulant + osmotic laxative with regular opioids.
• Morphine metabolites (M6G) accumulate in renal failure — use cautiously.

Decision points in this pathway

• Overdose triad (↓RR · pinpoint pupils · ↓consciousness)?

The full step-by-step algorithm, including what to do at each branch, opens in the app for approved members.