BradypneaBradypnea is abnormally slow breathing. It is the opposite of tachypnea.Signs and symptomsBradypnea may occur in isolation with no other symptoms or, depending on the underlying cause, be accompanied by other symptoms of breathing problems or signs of disease recognized by a medical professional.CausesAbnormally slow or shallow breathing may be caused by overdoses of drugs including opioids, benzodiazepines, and alcohol, as well as neuromuscular disorders such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Bradypnea may also be seen in patients with respiratory distress who are tiring from respiratory effort.TreatmentTreatment depends on the underlying medical issue causing bradypnea. Supportive care may be given, such as supplemental oxygen . If an opioid overdose is suspected, naloxone is given and may rapidly improve the rate of breathing.EtymologyThe word bradypnea uses combining forms of brady- + -pnea, from.