Articles: opioid.
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Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol · Nov 2014
ReviewEffect of sedative-hypnotics, anesthetics and analgesics on sleep architecture in obstructive sleep apnea.
The perioperative care of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients is currently receiving much attention due to an increased risk for complications. It is established that postoperative changes in sleep architecture occur and this may have pathophysiological implications for OSA patients. Upper airway muscle activity decreases during rapid eye movement sleep (REMS). ⋯ This article critically reviewed the literature relevant to preoperative screening for OSA, prevalence of OSA in surgical populations and changes in postoperative sleep architecture relevant to OSA patients. In particular, we addressed three questions in regard to the effects of sedative-hypnotics, anesthetics and analgesics on sleep architecture, the underlying mechanisms and the relevance to OSA. Indeed, these classes of drugs alter sleep architecture, which likely significantly contributes to abnormal postoperative sleep architecture, exacerbation of OSA and postoperative complications.
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There is increasing evidence encouraging the development of drugs that positively modulate the γ-aminobutyric acid type B (GABA(B)) receptor for combating addiction. Compounds that target GABA(B) receptors are unique as anti-abuse therapies because of their impact against multiple addictive drugs. ⋯ Clinical data exist only for baclofen and mostly for alcohol use disorders. Additional trials are needed, but effects are promising. Whether PAMs, given alone or in combination with a direct GABA(B) receptor agonist, will be clinically effective and have fewer side effects requires investigation. The sedative effects of baclofen, a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drug, become less severe over time. Based on existing data, baclofen is well-tolerated. However, genetic and physiological differences are likely to contribute to individual responses to different therapeutic agents. The more immediate development of baclofen as a therapeutic for alcohol use disorders may be of significant benefit to some individuals.
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Chronic pain is associated with impairments in sleep; however, the relationship between prescription opioid status and sleep is unclear. The primary aim of this study was to examine differences in self-reported sleep quality between groups of patients who varied based on chronic pain and prescription opioid status. ⋯ Prescription opioid status and dose were associated with impairment in self-reported sleep. For patients with chronic pain, consideration should be given to use of nonpharmacological interventions to improve sleep.
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Jpn. J. Clin. Oncol. · Nov 2014
Dyspnea, relative youth and low daily doses of opioids predict increased opioid dosage in the last week of a terminal cancer patient's life.
Most cancer patients become increasingly anxious toward the end of their life. The objective of this study was to identify predictors of increased opioid dosage in the last week of a terminal cancer patient's life. ⋯ Dyspnea, relative youth and oral morphine equivalent dosage <50 mg on Day 7 before death were predictive of increased oral morphine equivalent dosage in the last 7 days. Our findings may help oncologists to more accurately inform patients about expected opioid requirements and thus relieve their end-of-life anxiety.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
A randomized study of lubiprostone for opioid-induced constipation in patients with chronic noncancer pain.
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of oral lubiprostone for relieving symptoms of opioid-induced constipation (OIC) in patients with chronic noncancer pain. ⋯ Lubiprostone effectively relieved OIC and associated signs and symptoms and was well tolerated in patients with chronic noncancer pain (http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00595946).