Pharmacology Assessment A & B Practice Exam 2026 - Free Pharmacology Practice Questions and Study Guide

Respiratory depression is a significant risk associated with opioid overdose. Opioids act primarily on the central nervous system (CNS) and can significantly depress the respiratory center in the brain, leading to reduced respiratory rate and depth. This decrease in respiration can result in inadequate oxygen supply to the body, potentially leading to hypoxia, brain injury, and death if not reversed quickly.

In contrast, while cardiac arrest is a serious condition, it is often a secondary consequence of severe respiratory depression and the resultant low levels of oxygen in the blood rather than a direct effect of opioids. Severe headaches and nausea and vomiting can occur with opioid use but are not the primary life-threatening risks associated with overdose. Understanding these risks is crucial for the safe use of opioids and for responding effectively in emergency situations.