Pharmacy PEBC Practice Exam

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

1. Diarrhea

2. Constipation

3. Nausea

4. Insomnia

The correct answer is: Constipation

Opioids are well-known for their ability to relieve pain, but they also come with a range of adverse effects due to their pharmacological action on the gastrointestinal tract, particularly their effect on the mu-opioid receptors. When opioids bind to these receptors, they slow down gastrointestinal motility, which leads to decreased peristalsis and prolonged transit time through the intestines, ultimately resulting in constipation. This is one of the most common and troublesome side effects associated with opioid therapy and is often experienced by patients using these medications for pain management. In the context of the other options, while nausea can occur with opioid use and is indeed considered a common side effect, it is typically less prevalent than constipation. Diarrhea is usually associated with opioid withdrawal rather than with their use, making it a less relevant consideration. Insomnia is not a direct effect of opioids; in fact, opioids may sometimes cause sedation rather than insomnia. Therefore, constipation stands out as the adverse effect most directly linked to opioid usage, making it the correct answer in this context.