National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

What is the effect on pupils caused by depressants such as morphine and fentanyl?

1. Dilation

2. Miosis

3. Redness

4. Stimulation

The correct answer is: Miosis

The effect of depressants like morphine and fentanyl on pupils is known as miosis, which refers to the constriction of the pupils. This reaction occurs due to the way these substances interact with the body's opioid receptors, leading to increased parasympathetic nervous system activity. When someone uses depressants, they can experience relaxation and sedation, which often goes hand-in-hand with this pupillary constriction. Miosis is a distinct characteristic related to opioid use and helps differentiate it from other types of drug effects, such as those seen with stimulants, which typically cause pupil dilation instead. The other options do not accurately describe the effect caused by depressants. Dilation refers to an enlargement of the pupils and is usually associated with stimulants or withdrawal from opioids. Redness is more related to irritation or increased blood flow rather than pupil size and does not specifically pertain to the action of depressants. Stimulation implies increased activity and alertness, which is contrary to the sedative effects exhibited by substances like morphine and fentanyl.