L4 Drug Classification Nursing Related

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In the presence of pentazocine, a higher concentration of morphine is required to elicit pain relief. Pentazocine by it self has a smaller analgesic effect than does morphine, even at the highest dose, Which of the following is correct regarding these medications?

  • A. Pentazocine is a competitive antagonist
  • B. Morphine is a full agonist, and pentazocine is a partial agonist
  • C. Morphine is less efficacious than is pentazocine
  • D. Morphine is less potent than is pentazocine
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Pentazocine's submaximal effect and antagonism of morphine indicate it is a partial agonist, while morphine is a full agonist.