Opiates are dangerous at high doses due mostly to
A) their effects on cardiac muscle.
B) the increased likelihood of a stroke.
C) the suppression of the brainstem's respiratory center.
D) an overstimulation of the sympathetic nervous system.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Opiates, such as heroin or morphine, can lead to respiratory depression which occurs when the drug suppresses the respiratory center in the brainstem that controls breathing. This can lead to hypoxia or lack of oxygen in the body which can be fatal. Other effects of opiates include slowed heart rate and decreased blood pressure, but these do not typically result in the same level of danger as respiratory depression.

Opiates Are Dangerous at High Doses Due Mostly to