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« All Questions 8 years ago
What are the common side effects of opioids?
Moderator SeniorCaring
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Moderator SeniorCaring
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There are some unpleasant side effects of opioids that you will want to discuss with your senior’s physician or pain management specialist. They are:

  • Constipation: The elderly and those with conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract are most likely to suffer from constipation when taking opioids.
  • Nausea and vomiting: Depending on what opioid your loved one is taking, it may take a toll on the gastrointestinal tract, causing nausea and vomiting.
  • Itching: Though this symptom will typically last for just a few days, patients may feel itchy due to the release of histamines triggered by opioids.
  • Respiratory depression: This is a rare symptom, though will be present in an opioid overdose. If you or your senior experience shallow slow breathing when taking opioids, talk to your doctor to determine if medication changes should be made, or if it is stemming from another underlying condition.

Learn more about chronic pain management for seniors by reading about how to treat chronic pain in the elderly.

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