Respiratory depression

Respiratory depression is abnormally slow or shallow breathing that impairs oxygen uptake and carbon dioxide removal. Severe cases can cause respiratory failure, loss of consciousness, or death.

Respiratory drive: The neural and chemical signals that regulate the rate and depth of breathing. Depression occurs when these signals are weakened or the muscles cannot respond to them.
Opioid overdose: A toxic reaction to excessive opioid exposure that can impair consciousness and vital functions. Opioid overdose is a major cause of life-threatening respiratory depression.
Naloxone: A medication that rapidly reverses many opioid effects by blocking opioid receptors. It can restore breathing in opioid-induced respiratory depression.
Bradypnea: An abnormally slow respiratory rate, without specifying breathing depth or gas exchange. Respiratory depression can involve shallow breaths as well as a slow rate.
Medullary respiratory centers: Brainstem networks in the medulla that generate and regulate the basic breathing rhythm. Many drugs that suppress breathing act on these brainstem circuits.
Benzodiazepine overdose: A toxic reaction to excessive benzodiazepine exposure, often causing sedation and impaired coordination. Benzodiazepines can suppress breathing, especially when combined with other sedatives.
Bag-valve-mask ventilation: Manual ventilation using a self-inflating bag, valve, and face mask. It supports oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange when spontaneous breathing is inadequate.
Hypoventilation: Ventilation insufficient to meet the body's needs, usually causing carbon dioxide retention. Respiratory depression is a common cause of this broader physiological state.
Hypercapnia: An abnormally high concentration of carbon dioxide in the blood. Shallow or slow breathing can prevent adequate carbon dioxide removal.
Alcohol intoxication: A state of impairment caused by drinking enough alcohol to affect brain and body function. Severe intoxication can depress the central nervous system and breathing.

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