[Ref: SH(4)2:p114]
Nonselective antagonist
* Acts on all 3 opioid receptors
Short duration of action = 30-45 minutes
--> May require repeated doses
1-4 microgram/kg IV
--> Reverses opioid-induced analgesia and depression of ventilation
Continuous infusion of 5 microgram/kg/hour IV
--> Prevents depression of ventilation without altering analgesia due to neuraxial opioid
Highly effective orally
* Unlike naloxone (which is short-acting)
* Sustained antagonism for up to 24 hours
Used to treat addicts
Pure opioid antagonist
Equipotent to naloxone
Longer duration than naloxone
--> Better protection for ventilatory depression
[Ref: SH(H)2:p111]
Opioid agonist-antagonists bind to mu receptors
--> Limited response or no effect
Side effect profile is similar to opioid agonist, except: