Vol 12, No 2 (2018)
Review paper
Published online: 2018-06-06

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The use of opioids in the treatment of non-neoplastic pulmonary diseases

Magdalena Renata Osowicka1, Piotr Janowiak2, Agnieszka Gorzewska2
Palliat Med Pract 2018;12(2):118-126.

Abstract

Abstract Studies on the endogenous opioid system have demonstrated its presence, including opioid receptors, not only in the central nervous system but also in the respiratory tract. The presence of these receptors, both centrally and peripherally, provides the potential for treatment of respiratory symptoms, such as dyspnea and cough, with systemic and local application of opioids. These are especially important when symptomatic treatment becomes a priority in patient care.

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