What are common side effects of opioid medications?

The common side effects of opioid medications include constipation, nausea, sedation, and respiratory depression. These effects are well documented and understood within the context of opioid pharmacology.

Opioids work by binding to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which can lead to opioid-induced constipation as a result of decreased gastrointestinal motility. Nausea is another prevalent side effect due to the impact of opioids on the vestibular system and certain brain receptors. Sedation occurs as opioids can cause central nervous system depression, which affects alertness and consciousness. Respiratory depression is one of the most serious potential side effects, stemming from the way opioids modulate the brain's respiratory centers, potentially leading to life-threatening slow or shallow breathing.

The other options listed describe side effects that are not typically associated with opioid use. Weight gain, dizziness, insomnia, and hypertension are related to different pharmacological classes, while symptoms like diarrhea, fatigue, anxiety, and increased appetite tend to occur with other types of medications or conditions. Lastly, headaches, fever, rashes, and nausea can arise from various causes, but headaches and fever are not direct consequences of opioid therapy. Thus, the selection of constipation, nausea, sedation, and respiratory depression accurately reflects the