Which of the following is a common adverse effect of opioids?

Which of the following is a common adverse effect of opioids?

• A. Constipation
• B. Hypertension
• C. Hyperglycemia
• D. Rash

Answer: (A)

Opioids commonly slow the bowel, making constipation the most typical adverse effect. When these drugs bind to mu receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, they reduce motility, prolong transit time, and increase fluid absorption from the stool. They can also raise anal sphincter tone, which together leads to harder, less frequent stools. This effect can occur with any opioid and tends to be dose-related and persistent with ongoing use, which is why constipation is such a well-recognized issue with opioid therapy. The other options are less characteristic as common adverse effects: they may occur in some patients but are not as consistently observed as constipation with opioid use.

Opioids commonly slow the bowel, making constipation the most typical adverse effect. When these drugs bind to mu receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, they reduce motility, prolong transit time, and increase fluid absorption from the stool. They can also raise anal sphincter tone, which together leads to harder, less frequent stools. This effect can occur with any opioid and tends to be dose-related and persistent with ongoing use, which is why constipation is such a well-recognized issue with opioid therapy. The other options are less characteristic as common adverse effects: they may occur in some patients but are not as consistently observed as constipation with opioid use.