Which of the following is a common side effect of opioid pain relievers?

Constipation is a well-known and common side effect of opioid pain relievers. Opioids work by binding to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord to block pain, but they also affect the gastrointestinal tract. By slowing down bowel motility, opioids can lead to reduced peristalsis, which causes constipation. Patients taking opioids may experience infrequent bowel movements, hard stools, and discomfort as a result.

This effect is particularly important for healthcare providers to monitor, as it can significantly impact the patient's quality of life. Prevention strategies, such as the use of stool softeners or laxatives, are often recommended for patients on long-term opioid therapy to manage this side effect effectively.

In contrast, the other options are less commonly associated with opioid use; increased energy is typically not experienced and is contrary to the sedative effects of these medications. Diarrhea is not a common side effect since opioids generally decrease gastrointestinal motility, and excessive sweating may occur in some individuals but is not as prevalent as constipation.