Pharmacology · single question
Which of the following is NOT a common side effect of opioids?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Hyperventilation
Opioids commonly cause: Nausea and vomiting, due to stimulation of the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ). Constipation, due to decreased gastrointestinal motility. Itching (pruritus), likely due to histamine release. However, hyperventilation is not associated with opioids. Instead, they often lead to respiratory depression, characterized by slower and shallower breathing, as they depress the brainstem respiratory centers.