Introduction

Opioids are a type of analgesic that bind to naturally occurring opioid receptors. They are mainly used to treat severe pain.

Mechanism of action

Combine to specific opiate receptors in the CNS (periaqueductal grey matter, limbic system, substantia gelatinosa)

Morphine attaches to mu1 receptors

Adverse effects

  • Constipation
  • Nausea/vomiting
  • Itch
  • Addictive potential