Module 5

Opioid agonists

Medications that fully activate opioid receptors, leading to pain relief but also potential adverse effects.

Respiratory depression

A serious adverse effect of opioid agonists that can lead to inadequate breathing.

Naloxone

An opioid antagonist used as the first-line treatment for acute opioid overdose.

NSAIDs

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that can cause gastrointestinal ulcers, cardiovascular risks, and renal impairment.

Triptans

Serotonin agonists used for acute migraine treatment, such as Sumatriptan.

Prophylactic migraine treatment

Preventive medications including beta-blockers, anticonvulsants, and antidepressants.

Opioid partial agonist

A drug that activates opioid receptors but produces a lesser effect than full agonists, e.g., Buprenorphine.

Opioid antagonist

A drug that blocks opioid receptors, preventing the effects of opioids, e.g., Naloxone.

Acetaminophen

A medication for pain and fever that inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the CNS, with a risk of liver toxicity in overdose.

Amitriptyline

A tricyclic antidepressant used for chronic pain and migraines, known for side effects like drowsiness and dry mouth.

Aspirin

An NSAID used for pain and inflammation, with risks of gastrointestinal bleeding, especially with long-term use.

Baclofen

A muscle relaxant that enhances GABA activity, used for spasticity, but can cause drowsiness and weakness.

Celecoxib

A COX-2 selective NSAID that has fewer GI side effects than non-selective NSAIDs but carries cardiovascular risks.

Levodopa/Carbidopa

A treatment for Parkinson’s disease that increases dopamine in the brain, with side effects like nausea and dyskinesia.

Memantine

An NMDA receptor antagonist for Alzheimer’s disease, which can cause dizziness and confusion.