This thesis examines the safety of individuals exposed to potent opioids and carbon dioxide (CO2), with a particular focus on reversing the detrimental effects of opioid-induced respiratory... Show moreThis thesis examines the safety of individuals exposed to potent opioids and carbon dioxide (CO2), with a particular focus on reversing the detrimental effects of opioid-induced respiratory depression. It underscores the importance of mitigating patient harm from both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. Despite the safety of modern anesthesia, the pervasive misuse of potent opioids has precipitated a global health crisis. This thesis explores of the physiological impact of opioids on the ventilatory control system, especially in response to inhaled CO2. Structured in three distinct sections, the thesis first investigates the respiratory effects of oxycodone in healthy volunteers, considering additional variables such as alcohol, paroxetine, and quetiapine. The second part delves into assessing various agents for the reversal of opioid induced respiratory depression, including naloxone, buprenorphine, ENA-001, and others, detailing their varied efficacy. The concluding section involves an experimental studie on the tolerability and toxicity of escalating CO2 concentrations in both humans and rats. This comprehensive analysis contributes to a deeper understanding of the effects of CO2 and respiratory physiology, offering insight into the limits of carbon dioxide levels tolerated by humans. Show less
Boom, M.; Niesters, M.; Sarton, E.; Aarts, L.; Smith, T.W.; Dahan, A. 2012
