Opioids in veterinary medicine: panacea and pandemonium

摘要

Opioids are a large class of natural and synthetic compounds derived from the opium poppy.1 They include pain medications legally prescribed to people and animals, such as morphine and fentanyl, as well as recreational versions—like heroin— that areillegal.The "black box" warnings opioids carry on their prescription labels point out the dangers and risks of dependency for humans. Although veterinarians prescribe opioids for animals, they should be mindful of the potential for drug diversion-abuse or illegal distribution—on the part of the pet owner.