Opioids
About This Book
Most preventable deaths linked to drug use are caused by opioids, which makes their misuse a serious health problem across the world. These same substances remain central to treating pain and to comfort care for patients at the end of life. This volume surveys opioid pharmacology for scientists and clinicians who need a firm grasp of how these compounds act in the body. The opening chapters trace the history of opioids, from ancient civilizations to the present-day crisis. Later sections examine the intracellular signaling events that opioids trigger, their role in pain management, and the neuroinflammatory changes they can cause. Opioid use disorder and its treatment are also covered. A further focus is the effect of opioids on the innate and adaptive immune systems. The authors describe the molecules that mediate communication between opioids and innate immune receptors, presenting these compounds as possible regulators of inflammation and of the body's defense against pathogens and tissue damage. The field is intricate, with many ligands, numerous receptor subtypes, and layered pharmacological profiles. The contributors are active researchers who also teach, and they aim to explain these complex ideas clearly and thoroughly so that readers can develop a deeper understanding of the subject.
ISBN: 9783031099359
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