INSIDIOUS EFFECTS OF OPIOIDS IN INFARCTED PATIENTS: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

This article addresses the effects of morphine use in the treatment of acute coronary syndrome (ACS), a condition that remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in adults. The aim was to investigate whether morphine offers benefits or harms to patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), particularly regarding its interaction with P2Y12 platelet receptor inhibitors. The methodology included an integrative literature review using the PubMed and LILACS databases. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 27 relevant articles were selected.The study found that morphine, by alleviating pain and anxiety, can reduce sympathetic activity and cardiac workload, demonstrating cardioprotective effects. However, significant adverse effects were observed, such as reduced gastrointestinal absorption of antiplatelet agents, compromising their efficacy and potentially increasing the risk of ischemic events and mortality.The conclusions indicate that, despite its benefits in pain relief, morphine presents concerning drug interactions with antiplatelet agents, highlighting the need to explore alternative therapeutic options. This underscores the importance of reassessing morphine use in STEMI patients to minimize risks and improve clinical outcomes.