Opioid and Non-opioid Analgesics

by Cathy Parkes December 04, 2020 Updated: July 05, 2021

Non-opiod analgesics are use to treat MILD to MODERATE pain. NSAIDs carry risk of GI bleeding, renal toxicity, and GI upset. Opioid analgesics are used to treat MODERATE to SEVERE pain. Monitor for respiratory depression. Naloxone is the antidote!

Non-opiod analgesics (ex: acetaminophen, NSAIDs) are use to treat MILD to MODERATE pain.
For acetaminophen, do not exceed 4g/day. NSAIDs carry risk of GI bleeding, renal toxicity, and GI upset.

Check out our full article on non-opioid analgesics.

Opioid analgesics (ex: morphine, oxycodone) are used to treat MODERATE to SEVERE pain.
Monitor for respiratory depression. Naloxone is the antidote!

Check out our full article on opioid analgesics.

Cathy Parkes

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