Nurses Compass
Drug Guide
Dezocine
Classification
Therapeutic: Analgesic
Pharmacological: Mixed opioid agonist-antagonist
FDA Approved Indications
- Management of moderate to severe pain
Mechanism of Action
Dezocine acts as a mixed agonist-antagonist at opioid receptors, primarily stimulating kappa-opioid receptors and antagonizing mu-opioid receptors, resulting in analgesia with potentially fewer side effects compared to pure mu-agonists.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Typically 10 mg every 3-4 hours as needed for pain, not exceeding 40 mg in 24 hours.
Pediatric: Safety and efficacy not established; use caution and consider alternative therapies.
Geriatric: Start with lower doses due to increased sensitivity and potential for adverse effects.
Renal Impairment: Adjust dose cautiously, as accumulation may occur.
Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; dose adjustment may be necessary.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Well absorbed orally.
Distribution: Widely distributed, crosses the blood-brain barrier.
Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver.
Excretion: Excreted primarily in urine.
Half Life: Approximately 3-4 hours.
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to dezocine or other opioids.
- Severe respiratory depression.
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with a history of substance abuse, psychiatric disorders, or head injury.
- Caution in hepatic impairment.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Nausea (Unknown)
- Dizziness (Unknown)
- Drowsiness (Unknown)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Respiratory depression (Rare)
- Hypotension (Rare)
- Psychological dependence or abuse potential (Potential)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- CNS depressants (e.g., sedatives, tranquilizers) may enhance sedative effects.
- Other opioids may increase risk of adverse effects.
Drug-Food Interactions
N/ADrug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor pain relief effectiveness, respiratory status, blood pressure, and signs of sedation.
Diagnoses:
- Risk of respiratory depression
- Ineffective airway clearance
- Risk for falls related to sedation and dizziness
Implementation: Administer cautiously, monitor vital signs closely, educate patient about side effects.
Evaluation: Assess pain relief, monitor for adverse effects, document response.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Instruct on proper use, not to exceed prescribed dose.
- Warn about potential for drowsiness and impairments.
- Advise to avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.
- Report any signs of respiratory difficulty or unusual side effects.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- Potential for respiratory depression, especially in opioid-naive patients.
Genetic Factors: Not specifically indicated.
Lab Test Interference: No known significant interference.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Extreme drowsiness, respiratory depression, pinpoint pupils, coma.
Treatment: Maintain airway, provide respiratory support, administer opioid antagonists such as naloxone if necessary, supportive care.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.
Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions.