Final answer:
In therapeutic doses, oxycodone can stimulate mu receptors to cause spasmogenic activity in the ureters and sphincter muscle (Option C). It is also known to suppress coughing (Option E). It does not typically lead to hyperventilation, deep breathing, muscle relaxation, or bronchospasms in therapeutic doses.
Step-by-step explanation:
Oxycodone is a potent opioid medication used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It functions primarily by stimulating mu receptors in the body. When taken in therapeutic doses, oxycodone activates these receptors to produce its analgesic effects. Among the options provided, oxycodone is known to have spasmogenic activity in the ureters and sphincter muscle (Option C). It is incorrect that oxycodone causes hyperventilation and deep breathing (Option A) or relaxation of skeletal muscles (Option D). Instead, opioids can cause respiratory depression at higher doses. On the one hand, bronchospasms (Option B) are not a typical therapeutic effect of opioids. Moreover, therapies like naloxone exist as opioid antagonists to reverse opioid overdose symptoms, including respiratory depression.
Although not related to its action on mu receptors, one additional pharmacological effect of opioids like oxycodone is the suppression of coughing (Option E), which is why compounds with opioid-like effects are sometimes included in cough suppressants. It's important to note that opioids have a high potential for misuse, which can lead to addiction and other health issues. The opioid crisis points to the risks associated with the misuse of opioid medications such as oxycodone and its impact on public health.