Prescription Painkiller Side Effects

Prescription painkillers including Vicodin, Darvocet, Percocet, OxyContin, Fentanyl, Tramadol and Lortab are widely prescribed in the U.S. to treat moderate to severe pain. The opiate analgesics block pain signals by attaching to opiate receptors located in various parts of the body and brain. Prescription painkillers are effective treatments for chronic or persistent pain and can be taken safely. The downside is that they can cause physical and psychological dependence and addiction. Side effects of these narcotic medications vary widely and some are more common than others. They can be mild but in the case of misuse or overdose, side effects can be fatal.

Constipation is Common With Prescription Painkiller Use

Constipation is a commonly reported effect associated with the use of prescription painkillers. Whether taking opiates at therapeutic levels or abusing them, many users report sluggish bowel movements, a condition which can be both annoying and painful. The problem can be compounded if patients are taking a combination of prescription medications. Opiates can interfere with normal elimination by relaxing the smooth muscle in intestines and preventing them from contracting and expelling waste. With regular use of opiates, stools can become rock hard, blocking the bowels. In severe cases, bowels can rupture, leading to sepsis or death. Symptoms of constipation include: abdominal bloating, swelling and cramping; straining to pass stool; pain, discomfort or blood with a bowel movement; nausea; weight loss; and decreased appetite.

Mild and More Serious Side Effects

Even with short term use, patients can experience one or more side effects. They can include sedation, euphoria, dizziness, fatigue, depression, tremors, sleeplessness, anxiousness, flu-like symptoms, upset stomach, dry mouth, pupil constriction, itching, hallucination, delirium, sweating, muscle and bone pain, confusion, extreme irritability and muscle spasms. Taking too much of an opiate medication, or more frequently than prescribed can be dangerous, even fatal. Combining opiates with alcohol and some other drugs can also lead to severe reactions. More serious side effects can include severe respiratory depression, confusion or stupor, coma, clammy skin, circulatory collapse and cardiac arrest.

Factors that Can Determine Side Effects

The degree and frequency to which patients experience side effects depend on several factors. The amount taken can be one determining factor. Previous exposure to opiates can also determine side effects. Some users may build up a tolerance to prescription pain medication, meaning the prescribed dosage is inadequate in terms of pain relief. The method by which opiates are taken can also affect the physical and psychological symptoms experienced. Drug manufacturers provide labels on all prescription medication, outlining side effects, warnings, interactions and other dangers of use. Along with doctors, these companies provide information on how the drugs should be taken. This information should be followed closely. Chewing, crushing or otherwise tampering with the medication can lead to overdose.

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