If an individual chronically takes opioids, which consequence regarding pain signaling transduction becomes likely, specifically affecting nociceptor function?

💡 Explanation

Chronic opioid use leads to opioid-induced hyperalgesia. Because opioid receptors and substance P receptors share signaling pathways, long-term opioid exposure desensitizes substance P receptors, reducing their responsiveness. Therefore, diminished substance P sensitivity occurs, rather than increased sensitivity, and this counters pain relief, instead of promoting it.

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