Which of the following MME levels indicates the highest relative risk of overdose death?

The choice indicating 100+ MME reflects the highest relative risk of overdose death due to established correlations between opioid dosage and the likelihood of fatal outcomes. As the dosage of opioids increases, the risk of respiratory depression, sedation, and consequently overdose substantially rises.

Research has shown that patients prescribed higher doses of opioids (specifically those reaching or exceeding 100 MME) are significantly more likely to experience life-threatening side effects, including overdose. This threshold is recognized in clinical guidelines that advocate for heightened caution and alternative approaches to pain management at these doses.

In contrast, lower levels of MME, such as those in the ranges of 20-49, 50-99, and 10-20, carry comparatively lower overdose risks. These guidelines suggest that while any opioid use carries some risk, the dangers amplify sharply at higher doses, specifically at or above the 100 MME mark. Managing patients at this level often requires careful monitoring, reassessment of pain management strategies, and consideration of non-opioid alternatives or adjunct therapies.