Which side effect is NOT typically associated with opioid analgesics?

Which side effect is NOT typically associated with opioid analgesics?

• A. Constipation
• B. Diarrhea
• C. Nausea
• D. Pruritus

Answer: (B)

Opioid analgesics slow gut motility and affect the central nervous system to produce several well-known side effects. constipation happens because the drugs reduce intestinal movement and increase sphincter tone. Nausea is common too, from stimulation of the chemoreceptor trigger zone and slower gastric emptying. Pruritus occurs in some people due to histamine release. Diarrhea, on the other hand, would require increased intestinal motility or secretion, which opioids do not promote; they actually do the opposite. So diarrhea is not typically associated with opioid use, making it the side effect that doesn’t fit with the usual opioid adverse effect profile.

Opioid analgesics slow gut motility and affect the central nervous system to produce several well-known side effects. constipation happens because the drugs reduce intestinal movement and increase sphincter tone. Nausea is common too, from stimulation of the chemoreceptor trigger zone and slower gastric emptying. Pruritus occurs in some people due to histamine release. Diarrhea, on the other hand, would require increased intestinal motility or secretion, which opioids do not promote; they actually do the opposite. So diarrhea is not typically associated with opioid use, making it the side effect that doesn’t fit with the usual opioid adverse effect profile.