Question
Which side effect is a patient on chronic opioid therapy, such as oxycodone, most likely to experience and often needs a prophylactic bowel regimen for?
Tap to reveal answer↕
Answer
A.Constipation
B.Diarrhea
C.Hypertension
D.Insomnia
Opioids slow GI motility, and constipation is a near-universal, ongoing side effect of chronic opioid use, which is why patients are often started on a stimulant laxative or stool softener proactively. Opioids do not typically cause diarrhea, hypertension, or insomnia as characteristic effects.
