The effect of dopaminergic modifiers on morphine-induced analgesia and respiratory depression

The influences of the dopaminergic system on morphine-induced analgesia and respiratory depression were compared using modulators of dopaminergic activity. Blockade of dopaminergic receptors by haloperidol or pimozide produced a potentiation of morphine analgesia, while stimulation of dopaminergic activity by L-dopa methyl ester inhibited morphine analgesia. Morphine-induced depression of respiratory rate was potentiated by haloperidol and inhibited by pimozide or L-dopa methyl ester. These results suggest that the dopaminergic system plays a modulating role in morphine-induced analgesia, but not in morphine-induced respiratory depression.