Module 14.2 - Opioid Toxicology - Podcast

Описание: Welcome to the Creative Commons Rx Podcast!

Before diving into this episode, I want to ensure we're all on the same page.

This is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor-patient or pharmacist-patient relationship is formed. Using this information and the materials linked to this podcast is at the user's risk. The content on this podcast is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice from any medical condition they have, and they should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions.

Clinical experts created the references, content, and clinical insight. NotebookLM, a Google AI tool, created the audio content, which I extensively reviewed before release.

Finally, the host states that he takes all conflicts of interest seriously. Currently, there are no conflicts to disclose. For all of his disclosures and the companies he invests in or advises, he directs users to reach out independently, where he keeps an up-to-date and active list of all disclosures.



Welcome to our comprehensive exploration of opioids! As aspiring and practicing pharmacy professionals, a deep understanding of this multifaceted class of xenobiotics is paramount for delivering safe and effective patient care.
In this module, we embark on a journey through the rich history of opioids, from their ancient medicinal roots to the complexities of the current public health crisis, including pivotal legislative responses like the Harrison Narcotics Tax Act. We'll clarify essential terminology, precisely differentiating between "opiates," "opioids," and the broader, often-misused term "narcotics".
Dive into the intricate world of opioid pharmacology, where we dissect the pharmacodynamics of key opioid receptor subtypes—mu (µ), kappa (κ), and delta (δ)—and their signal transduction mechanisms. You'll learn how activation of these receptors correlates with both therapeutic effects and critical adverse events like respiratory depression.
We'll also spotlight the unique pharmacological properties and associated toxicities of specific opioid agents such as meperidine (proconvulsant, serotonin toxicity), tramadol (seizures), and fentanyl (potency, chest wall rigidity), alongside essential agents like methadone and buprenorphine. You’ll learn to recognize the hallmark signs and symptoms of the opioid toxic syndrome, including mental status depression, respiratory depression, and miosis.
A critical focus is placed on opioid antagonists. We'll compare and contrast the pharmacokinetic profiles of naloxone and naltrexone, explaining their distinct roles: naloxone as the cornerstone for acute overdose reversal and naltrexone for long-term relapse prevention. You’ll gain insights into formulating appropriate naloxone dosing strategies, understanding the nuances for patient opioid dependence and specific opioids like buprenorphine and fentanyl.
Finally, we underscore the pivotal role of pharmacists in prevention and harm reduction strategies. This includes advocating for responsible prescribing, promoting naloxone distribution to laypersons, and understanding medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) with agents like methadone and buprenorphine, recognizing their distinguishing characteristics, safety profiles, and administrative requirements.
Join us to deepen your understanding and contribute effectively to patient care and public health in the ongoing opioid crisis.