Which signs are typical of opioid intoxication?

Which signs are typical of opioid intoxication?

• A. Apathy and lethargy
• B. Paranoia and euphoria with tachycardia
• C. Nystagmus and ataxia
• D. Euphoria, depressed mental status, respiratory depression, miosis

Answer: (D)

Opioid intoxication is defined by central nervous system depression with pupil constriction, often accompanied by slowed breathing. The most telling combination is euphoria or sedation, depressed mental status, respiratory depression, and pinpoint pupils (miosis). Among the options, this set captures the classic pattern: euphoria or drowsy mood, diminished consciousness, slowed respiration, and small pupils, which together point to opioid effects. The other signs listed don’t fit the typical opioid picture. Apathy and lethargy are nonspecific and don’t emphasize the hallmark pinpoint pupils or respiratory suppression. Paranoia and euphoria with tachycardia suggest stimulant- or psychosis-related intoxication rather than opioids, where tachycardia is less common and respiratory depression is a key feature. Nystagmus and ataxia are more characteristic of other substances or conditions rather than opioid intoxication.

Opioid intoxication is defined by central nervous system depression with pupil constriction, often accompanied by slowed breathing. The most telling combination is euphoria or sedation, depressed mental status, respiratory depression, and pinpoint pupils (miosis). Among the options, this set captures the classic pattern: euphoria or drowsy mood, diminished consciousness, slowed respiration, and small pupils, which together point to opioid effects.

The other signs listed don’t fit the typical opioid picture. Apathy and lethargy are nonspecific and don’t emphasize the hallmark pinpoint pupils or respiratory suppression. Paranoia and euphoria with tachycardia suggest stimulant- or psychosis-related intoxication rather than opioids, where tachycardia is less common and respiratory depression is a key feature. Nystagmus and ataxia are more characteristic of other substances or conditions rather than opioid intoxication.