How do opioid medications (like morphine) typically affect gastrointestinal motility?
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Correct answer: They block excitatory transmitters, causing constipation
Opioids bind to mu-receptors in the enteric nervous system, which inhibits the release of acetylcholine. This decreases propulsive motility and increases fluid absorption, leading to opioid-induced constipation.
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More Motility and peristalsis questions
- Which structure acts as the physiological pacemaker for gastric motility, and where is it located?
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