Opioid analgesics : side effects

Opioid analgesics side effects / Adverse Reactions of Opioids:

Common side effects and adverse reactions:

• nausea
• vomiting
• drowsiness
• dry mouth
• miosis (contraction of the pupil)
• orthostatic hypotension (blood pressure lowers upon sudden standing)
• urinary retention
• constipation and/or fecal impaction

Less common side effects and adverse reactions:

• confusion
• hallucinations
• delirium
• hives
• itch
• hypothermia
• bradycardia (slow heart rate)
• tachycardia (rapid heart rate)
• raised intracranial pressure
• ureteric or biliary spasm
• muscle rigidity
• flushing

Most severe side effects and adverse reactions:

• respiratory depression
• fatal overdose