Substance Use Disorders · NEET PG Preparation Psychiatry
A patient with a history of severe opioid dependence is admitted to the hospital. Twelve hours after his last dose, he develops yawning, lacrimation,…
Practice question from Substance Use Disorders (NEET PG Preparation Psychiatry), with the correct answer and a step-by-step solution.
medium · MCQ · Q-957B77
A patient with a history of severe opioid dependence is admitted to the hospital. Twelve hours after his last dose, he develops yawning, lacrimation, rhinorrhea, piloerection ('gooseflesh'), mydriasis, muscle cramps, and severe nausea and vomiting. Which medication is most appropriate for the immediate management of acute opioid withdrawal symptoms?
- A.Naltrexone
- B.Naloxone
- C.ClonidineCorrect answer
- D.Flumazenil
Solution
Clonidine, an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, is effective in reducing the autonomic symptoms of opioid withdrawal (such as tachycardia, hypertension, sweating, rhinorrhea, and cramping) by decreasing central sympathetic outflow. Naloxone and naltrexone would precipitate acute, severe withdrawal. Flumazenil is used for benzodiazepine reversal.
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