Patients with _____ should be careful when using opioid analgesics because of the effect histamine may have on the bronchioles of the lungs.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Opioid analgesics affect bronchial smooth muscle by two actions. In addition to their direct spasmogenic action on bronchial smooth muscle, these analgesics cause the release of histamine, which directly constricts the bronchioles. Constriction of the bronchioles narrows the respiratory passages, making breathing more difficult. This response is dangerous in individuals who already have respiratory difficulties, such as chronic bronchitis, obstructive lung disease, and asthma. Asthmatic patients may be unusually sensitive to histamine release, to the point that opioid analgesics may induce an asthmatic attack.

Patients with _____ Should Be Careful When Using Opioid Analgesics