What is a sign of opioid intoxication?

What is a sign of opioid intoxication?

• A. Dilated pupils
• B. Increased energy
• C. Pinpoint pupils
• D. Rapid heart rate

Answer: (C)

Pinpoint pupils are a classic sign of opioid intoxication. Opioids, which include substances like heroin, morphine, and prescription pain relievers, typically cause a decrease in the size of the pupils due to their action on the central nervous system. This reaction is part of the parasympathetic nervous system response when opioids bind to their receptors in the brain, leading to constricted pupils. Recognizing pinpoint pupils is crucial in clinical settings, especially since it can indicate opioid overdose, which may also present with respiratory depression and altered mental status. These symptoms necessitate immediate medical intervention. Understanding this specific response helps in distinguishing opioid intoxication from intoxication with other substances, as other drugs (like stimulants) often have opposite effects, such as dilated pupils.

Pinpoint pupils are a classic sign of opioid intoxication. Opioids, which include substances like heroin, morphine, and prescription pain relievers, typically cause a decrease in the size of the pupils due to their action on the central nervous system. This reaction is part of the parasympathetic nervous system response when opioids bind to their receptors in the brain, leading to constricted pupils.

Recognizing pinpoint pupils is crucial in clinical settings, especially since it can indicate opioid overdose, which may also present with respiratory depression and altered mental status. These symptoms necessitate immediate medical intervention. Understanding this specific response helps in distinguishing opioid intoxication from intoxication with other substances, as other drugs (like stimulants) often have opposite effects, such as dilated pupils.