Long-term use of narcotic drugs and risk assessment

Long-term use of narcotic drugs and risk assessment of long-term use of narcotic drugs and risk assessment of narcotic drugs play a key role in surgical and medical procedures, but their long-term use may also pose some risks. Understanding these risks and their assessment methods are essential to ensure the safety and health of patients. The following are key points for risk assessment and management of the long-term use of narcotic drugs.1. Potential risk cognitive functional impacts used over time::: Memory and learning capacity: the long-term or frequent use of narcotic drugs, especially among older patients, may have an impact on cognitive functions. Studies have shown that some of the narcotic drugs can lead to post-operative cognitive disorders (POCDs), in the form of reduced memory, low concentration, etc.Chronic effects: Long-term exposure to certain narcotic drugs (e.g. fluorine, isofluoroolene) may be associated with decreased cognitive function, but this effect is usually temporary and the long-term consequences are still being explored.Mental health issues:Anxiety and depression: Some studies have found that long-term use of narcotic drugs may be associated with post-operative anxiety and depression symptoms. This may be due to the effects of the drug on the nervous system or to psychological stress during post-operative recovery.Cardiovascular system effects:Heart function: The long-term use of narcotic drugs may have a negative impact on the cardiovascular system, including heart failure, blood pressure fluctuations, etc. These risks are even more pronounced, especially among patients with a history of cardiovascular diseases.Hepatic and kidney function effects:• Drug metabolism: Many narcotic substances are largely dependent on liver and kidney metabolism and excretion in the body. Long-term use may impose a burden on these organs, resulting in abnormal liver and kidney functions.2. Pre-operative assessment of the risk assessment methodology:• Comprehensive health assessment: an understanding of the patient’s past history, current health status, drug use and its resistance to narcotic drugs. Includes detailed medical history collection, medical examinations and necessary laboratory examinations (e.g. liver and kidney function tests).- Individualized anaesthesia programme: based on the results of the assessment, individualized anaesthesia programmes are developed, with the choice of an anaesthesia that is less burdened on the patient ‘ s body and the determination of the appropriate dose.Monitoring in surgery:Vital signs monitoring: continuous monitoring of vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, breathing frequency, etc. of patients. Real-time adjustment of the use of narcotic drugs to ensure stable vital signs.• Drug monitoring: monitor the concentrations and effects of narcotic drugs and avoid the toxic effects that may result from long-term use.Post-operative assessment:Cognitive function assessment: Post-operative assessment of patients ‘ cognitive functions, including memory, attention and learning abilities. Appropriate interventions and follow-up are provided for patients with reduced cognitive functioning.:: Mental health support: assess post-operative psychological state, provide necessary psychological support and treatment to help patients cope with post-operative anxiety and depression.Permanent follow-up:• Periodic examinations: periodic health examinations, including liver and kidney function, cardiovascular system function and cognitive function assessment, for patients with long-term use of narcotic drugs.Assessment and adaptation: Adapting drug use programmes to follow-up results to avoid long-term physical burdens. When necessary, dosage adjustments or replacements are made.Risk management strategies to reduce drug exposure:Optimizing anaesthesia programmes: use short-lived, low-toxic narcotic drugs as far as possible. Avoid unnecessary use of narcotic drugs and reduce their duration.• Drug substitution: where possible, use of non-alcoholic or assistive treatment methods to reduce dependence on narcotic drugs.Enhanced care and support:• Post-operative recovery: comprehensive post-operative care, including pain management, cognitive rehabilitation and psychological support. Helps patients to survive the recovery period and reduces post-operative complications.• Health education: health education for patients and their families on the use of narcotic drugs, information on possible side effects and long-term risks, and enhancement of patient self-management capacity.It was concluded that the long-term use of narcotic drugs could present a range of risks, including cognitive disorders, mental health problems, cardiovascular and liver and kidney effects. These risks can be effectively assessed and managed through comprehensive pre-operative assessments, close surgical monitoring, careful post-operative management and long-term follow-up. Individualized anaesthesia programmes and comprehensive care support are key to ensuring the safety and health of patients. The scientific rational use of narcotic drugs and the optimization of treatment programmes help to reduce the possible negative effects of long-term use.