Respiratory depression

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Respiratory depression or respiratory insuffíciency is when breathing reduces to a rate below 12 breaths per minute or fails to provide full ventilation and perfusion of the lungs.[1]

Symptom recognition[edit | edit source]

Respiratory depression is not a known symptom of ME/CFS, but is a known side effect of some medications used for symptom relief in patients with ME/CFS, particularly opioids.[2]

Causes[edit | edit source]

Respiratory depression may be caused by medications that act as respiratory depressants, a drug or other agent that diminishes normal breathing. Most respiratory depressants, such as alcohol and opioids, act by depressing the activity of the central nervous system.[1]

Learn more[edit | edit source]

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]