Adverse Effects Following the Inadvertent Administration of Opioids to Infants and Children

Abstract

Regardless of the clinical scenario in which they are administered, opioids can have adverse effects in infants and children. These adverse effects may be particularly problematic when opioids are inadvertently administered since the clinical signs and symptoms may not be readily attributed to opioids without an appropriate history. The authors present 3 clinical scenarios in which adverse effects occurred related to the inadvertent administration of opioids when: (1) acetaminophen with codeine were administered instead of acetaminophen, (2) a mother was breastfeeding while taking opioids, and (3) a fentanyl patch was placed on a superficial injury. A thorough history and physical examination combined with urine/plasma drug screening resulted in the identification of the problem and its effective therapy.