Question

what are the main side effects of narcotics/opioids? how do you counteract them?

Answer 1

Opioids or narcotics are a class of drugs used to manage acute and chronic pain. Opioids are also used by drug addicts.

When medically used opioids should be started with minimal dose with gradual increase in dose. This avoids drug tolerance. Opioids should also not be stoped abruptly.

Side effects if opioids include:

1. Drowsiness and nausea

counteract method : often resolve on its own in 2-3 days. If symptoms persist dose adjustments and dose timing should be changed.

2. Respiratory depression and altered consciousness

counteract method: use of naloxone

3. Nausea

counteract method: often resolve own its own. If nausea persist avoid spicy food and take medicine with food. Drug treatment include 5HT3 antagonist like ondansetron.

4. Constipation

counteract method : used of lactulose, miralax

5. Myoclonus

counteract method : switch to other type of opioid. If problem persists use clonazepam or lorazepam.

6. itching

counteract method : use antihistaminic drugs