Therapeutic Classification
narcotic analgesic
Pharmacologic Classification
opioid agonist
Mechanism of Action
Occupies mu and kappa receptor sites in brain and dorsal horn of the spinal cord that alter release of afferent neurotransmitters.
Indications
- Relieving acute MI
Contraindications
- Premature infants (b/c blood-brain barrier permeability → increase CNS effect)
Precautions
Effect of drug interaction with a CNS depressant?
Increased sedation.
Effect of drug interaction with an opioid antagonist?
Reversed effect.
Effect of drug interaction with an antidiarrheal?
Additive constipation.
pregnancy category?
Pregnancy Category C
Adverse Effects
Nursing Considerations