What are the adverse effects of opioid analgesic drugs?

Opioid analgesics are commonly used to manage pain, but they also come with a variety of adverse effects. One of the most well-known side effects is constipation. This occurs because opioids bind to receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to decreased peristalsis and slower movement of the contents through the intestines. This results in harder, less frequent bowel movements, which can be uncomfortable and lead to complications such as bowel obstruction if not managed properly.

While increased anxiety, headaches, and nausea can occur with opioid use, they are not as universally associated with opioids as constipation is. Opioid-induced constipation is a particularly important consideration because it is a dose-dependent effect and can significantly impact the patient's quality of life if not preemptively treated with laxatives or other interventions. Understanding this adverse effect is critical for healthcare providers so they can effectively monitor and manage patients on opioid therapy.