American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Respiratory depression is considered a severe risk associated with opioid use because it can lead to inadequate ventilation and, in severe cases, respiratory arrest. Opioids work by binding to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord that help to block pain signals; however, they also depress the central nervous system, which affects the body’s ability to regulate breathing. This can result in slowed or shallow breathing that may become life-threatening, particularly in high doses or when combined with other depressant substances.

While nausea, constipation, and vomiting are common side effects of opioids, they are generally not life-threatening compared to respiratory depression. Nausea and vomiting can often be managed with appropriate medications, and constipation, although problematic, is typically manageable with dietary adjustments or the use of laxatives. In contrast, respiratory depression can lead to hypoxia, permanent brain damage, or death if not promptly addressed. Therefore, the potential for respiratory depression is a critical concern when prescribing opioids, necessitating careful monitoring and management in patients receiving these medications.