morphine

GingerSue · Dec 2, 2007

opioids bind to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord (some receptors are found in peripheral tissues). When bound to an opioid drug, the opioid receptors function like gates that close and block or decrease transmission of pain impulses. Opioid receptors also activate the endogenous analgesia system. The major types of receptors are mu, kappa, and delta. Most opioid effects are attributed to activation of mu receptors.

allnurses Guide · Dec 2, 2007

Does morphine stimulate opioid receptors to secrete endorphins that will inihibit Substance P?

As stated above opioids bind to opioid receptor sites, in morphine's case mu receptors (1 and 2). Morphine mimics endorphins and inhibits the release of several neurotransmitters including Substance P and acetycholine. Morphine acts mainly on the presynaptic nerve terminal.

By the way this doesn't sound like a typical undergraduate nursing topic...

Tristar · Dec 2, 2007

Thanks for your response,

Sorry if it's a bit of a remedial question. I'm in my first quarter and not understanding the pharmacodynamics of morphine. I think I just need to read through other pharm texts because mine just explains what it does not how it does it.