Desired and Undesired Effects of Opioids: Morphine in the Brain

This session explores the complex effects of morphine on the brain and body. Following an introduction to the therapeutic and adverse effects of morphine, including its role in pain management and risks associated with its use, the mechanisms behind tolerance, dependence, and opioid-induced hyperalgesia will be examined to reveal how prolonged use alters brain chemistry. Learners will be able to recognize the key signs of opioid overdose and understand the appropriate use of antidotal therapy for effective intervention.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Describe the primary desired and undesired effects of morphine in the body.
• Describe the development of tolerance and dependence on morphine.
• Explain opioid-induced hyperalgesia.
• Describe the cardinal signs of opioid overdose and the proper antidotal therapy.

FACILITATOR:

Raymond M. Quock, PhD (Pharmacology)
Professor Emeritus of Psychology and Neuroscience
College of Arts and Sciences
Department of Psychology
Washington State University       

BIO:  Dr. Quock is a Professor Emeritus at Washington State University. He has published over 140 papers on neuropsychopharmacology.An award-winning teacher, Quock received seven Raymond B. Allen Instructorship (Golden Apple) Awards from the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford. Quock also has taught at the UW, the University of Pacific School of Pharmacy, and the Marquette University School of Dentistry. His research interest is in the area of neuropsychopharmacology, involving drugs that affect brain function and behavior. His work has been supported by the National Institute for Drug Abuse at the National Institutes of Health, among other organizations. His more recent research focused on hyperbaric oxygen suppression of chronic pain and opioid dependence.

ACCREDITATION

This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME). The WSU Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

The WSU Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

The WSU College of Nursing is approved as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the Montana Nurses Association, an accredited approver with distinction by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation (ANCC). This activity is approved for a maximum of 1.0 contact hour(s).

The Washington State University College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) as a provider of continuing pharmacy education.

Pharmacy continuing education credits (1.0 contact hour, knowledge-based, ACPE Activity Number: UAN: 0071-9999-25-001-H08-P) are available for this activity. The Washington State University College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education as a provider of continuing pharmacy education.

The RELIEF project (Resources and Education Leading to Improved Pain Care Equity For Washingtonians) is funded by a grant from the Washington State Health Care Authority. Project director Marian Wilson PhD, MPH, RN, PMGT-BC.