Abstract: Respiratory depression is a common adverse reaction of opioids.Currently, the mechanisms and treatment of opioid-induced respiratory depression (OIRD) are one of the research highlights. OIRD arises from stimulation of μ-opioid receptors in the pre-Botzinger complex and the Kolliker-Fuse neurons. Adenylyl cyclase, calcium channels, and G-protein–gated inwardlyrectifying potassium (GIRK) channels may be the key cellular signaling mechanisms of OIRD.

Key words: opioids, opioid receptors，respiratory depression