N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor:Potential Role in TreatingNeuraxial Opioid Induced Pruritus / 中国医学科学院学报

ABSTRACT

Neuraxial opioid administration is one of the most common methods of anesthesia and analgesia,while itching is the most troublesome adverse effect.The current treatments for neuraxial opioid-induced pruritus still have certain limitations.This article reviews the current treatments and basic scientific findings(including neurotransmitters,opioid receptors,and signaling pathways)of pruritus caused by neuraxial opioids.Based on our recent findings on N-methyl-D-aspartate(NMDA)receptors and pruritus caused by neuraxial opioids,we provide new ideas for the treatment of itching caused by neuraxial opioids.Since NMDA receptors may play a key role in neuraxial opioid-induced pruritus,NMDA receptor antagonists can have certain therapeutic advantages.