MoA: Binds directly to opioid receptors to decrease pain response.
Indications: Acute Pain, Chronic Pain
Contraindications: Asthma
Side Effects: Constipation, Diaphoresis
Drug Interactinos: Alcohol, Antihistamines, Barbiturates, Benzodiazepines, MAOIs
Nursing Implications:
- Opioids are a Schedule 2 Controlled Substance.
- Assess pain and respiratory status before and after administration. Patient is at risk for respiratory depression.
- Instruct patients to change positions slowly due to risk of falls.
- Monitor the patient for bowel movements as opioid usage can induce constipation.
- Monitor for elevated intracranial pressure.
- Understand that Opioid Agonists have a no ceiling effect.
