Conscious sedation: Pharmacology.
Applied pharmacology
Opioids
ADVANCED
Opioids are a class of medications that are commonly used in advanced conscious sedation to provide analgesia and reduce anxiety during medical and dental procedures.
They work by binding to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord, known as mu, delta, and kappa receptors, which are involved in the perception of pain and the regulation of mood and anxiety.
The most commonly used opioids in advanced conscious sedation are
- fentanyl
- remifentanil
- sufentanil
They can be administered via various routes, including intravenous, intramuscular, and transmucosal.
Opioids produce their effects by reducing the perception of pain and inducing a sense of relaxation and euphoria. However, they can also cause respiratory depression, and nausea and vomiting, particularly at higher doses.
How can the effects of opioids be reversed if problems occur?
Opioids are generally safe when used appropriately, but their use should be monitored closely, particularly in patients with underlying respiratory or cardiovascular disease. Careful titration of the dose is necessary to ensure adequate pain control without causing excessive sedation or respiratory depression.
Opioids are valuable medications for use in advanced conscious sedation, particularly in short, painful procedures. They can provide effective pain control and anxiety reduction, but their use requires careful monitoring and titration to ensure patient safety.