Respiratory depression occurs when ventilation is inadequate, as evidenced by a slow respiratory rate or reduced tidal volume as well as low partial pressure of oxygen and elevated partial pressure of carbon dioxide. In patients with mild hypoventilation who inhale high concentrations of oxygen, the partial pressure of oxygen may not decrease, but the partial pressure of carbon dioxide may increase. Since respiratory actions are regulated by respiratory muscle activity under the central respiratory control, respiratory depression can be divided into central and peripheral respiratory depression. Narcotics and narcotic analgesics can cause central respiratory depression, and hyperventilation due to excessive carbon dioxide excretion and hyperinflation can also cause central respiratory depression. For respiratory depression caused by hyperventilation and hyperinflation, the ventilation volume should be reduced appropriately and the rhythm of spontaneous breathing should be used to synchronize assisted breathing so that the partial pressure of carbon dioxide can be restored to the normal range and spontaneous breathing can be gradually restored. Peripheral respiratory depression, the use of hormonal drugs is the most common cause of peripheral respiratory depression. Massive urination due to lower blood potassium can lead to respiratory muscle paralysis, such as general anesthesia in line with high epidural tissue, also due to high anesthetic plane, resulting in respiratory muscle paralysis and inability to breathe. For respiratory depression caused by inotropic drugs, neostigmine is commonly used to give antagonism. For respiratory muscle paralysis caused by hypokalemia, potassium ions should be supplemented promptly. For respiratory depression caused by spinal nerve block, respiration will be gradually restored after the blocking effect disappears.