What is a common side effect of opioid analgesics?

Opioid analgesics are widely used for their effectiveness in managing pain, but they are also known for their range of side effects, with constipation being one of the most common. This occurs because opioids bind to receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to a decrease in gastrointestinal motility. As a result, intestinal movement slows down, causing stools to become harder and less frequent, which leads to constipation.

The mechanism by which opioids cause constipation involves their action on the mu-opioid receptors in the brain and the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This creates a significant challenge for patients requiring long-term pain management with opioids, requiring them to potentially implement preventive measures, such as increasing fluid intake, dietary changes, or using laxatives.

While nausea, drowsiness, and dry mouth are also recognized side effects of opioid use, constipation is particularly notable due to its prevalence and potential impact on patient comfort and compliance with opioid therapy. Managing and anticipating this side effect is crucial for healthcare providers in order to support their patients effectively during treatment.