Potential Opioid Adverse Effects and Their Management

Question 1

Constipation

Answer 1

Opioid decrease GE peristalsis due to CNS depression

Stool is excessively dehydrated b/c remain in GI tract for a long time

Question 2

Preventative measures for Constipation

Answer 2

Increase fluid intake - stool softener - use of stimulants

Question 3

Nausea and Vomiting

Answer 3

Due to opioid depressing CNS and stimulating vomiting center of CNS

Question 4

Preventative measures for Nausea and Vomiting

Answer 4

Use of antiemetics (i.e. phenothiazines)

Question 5

Sedation and Mental Clouding

Answer 5

Due to drug-related CNS depression

Question 6

Preventative measures for Sedation and Mental Clouding

Answer 6

Decrease in dosage of opioid or change in drug use or order CNS stimiulant

Question 7

Respiratory Depression

Answer 7

Due to long term use of opioid

Question 8

Preventative measures for Respiratory Depression

Answer 8

Opioid antagonist (naloxone) may be used to improve respiration 
Analgesia reversal

Question 9

Other adverse effects

Answer 9

Subacute overdose, dry mouth, urinary retention, pruitus, myoclonus, dysphoria, euphoria, sleep disturbance, sexual dysfunction, and inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone