| Date | May 2010 | Marks available | 6 | Reference code | 10M.3.sl.TZ2.D3 |
| Level | SL | Paper | 3 | Time zone | TZ2 |
| Command term | Describe and Discuss | Question number | D3 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
Mild analgesics such as aspirin, and strong analgesics such as opiates, differ not only in their potency but also in the ways they act on the central nervous system.
(a) Describe how mild and strong analgesics provide pain relief.
Mild analgesics:
Strong analgesics:
(b) Discuss two advantages and two disadvantages of using morphine and other opiates for pain relief.
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Markscheme
(a) Mild analgesics:
suppress the production of prostaglandins/pain-sensitizing substances / intercept the pain stimulus at the source;
Strong analgesics:
bind to (opioid) receptors in the CNS/central nervous system/brain / suppress the transmission of pain impulses to the brain / OWTTE;
(b) Advantages: [2 max]
strong(er) analgesics / relieve acute/extreme pain;
wide therapeutic window / OWTTE;
relieve anxiety / induce relaxation / improve the quality of life;
intravenous/faster distribution of drug;
Disadvantages: [2 max]
euphoria / lack of self-control / dangerous behaviour;
addiction/dependence / withdrawal symptoms;
tolerance / increased risk of overdose upon prolonged use;
kidney/renal failure;
risks associated with intravenous drug administration;
Accept other side-effects (including drug-specific for different opiates).
Examiners report
Many candidates displayed good knowledge about the differences in the mode of action of weak and strong analgesics, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of the latter.
