In fact, morphine-related toxicity will be evident in sequential development of drowsiness, confusion and loss of consciousness before his respiratory drive is significantly compromised. Many physicians inappropriately call this risk of a potentially adverse event a double effect, when it is in fact a secondary, unintended consequence. An example might be the separation of Siamese twins, knowing that one twin will die so that the other will live. If the intent is not desirable or will harm the patient and the potential outcome bad, the treatment is considered unethical. All medical treatments have both intended effects and the risk of unintended, potentially adverse, secondary consequences, including death.
Some examples are TPN, chemotherapy, surgery, amiodarone, etc.
The intent in offering the treatment is to end the patient's life. The risk of a potentially dangerous adverse secondary effect is minimal. The risk of respiratory depression is vastly over-estimated. American Medical Association, Chicago. Prognostic Value of Negative Stress Echocardiography in Diabetics.