30th August 2024

Opioids

Opioids, including natural opiates like morphine and synthetic analogues such as oxycodone, act on opioid receptors in the central nervous system to provide rapid relief for acute severe pain or chronic pain in palliative care. They can cause respiratory depression, nausea, vomiting, pinpoint pupils, constipation, and itching. Prolonged use can lead to physical dependence, necessitating careful management to avoid withdrawal symptoms like sweating, tremors, anxiety, and cravings. Oxycodone is contraindicated in patients with acute hepatic failure.