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Anticipating and treating opioid-associated adverse effects.
Christopher M Herndon1, Donna A K Kalauokalani, Amy J Cunningham
1Ortho-McNeil, Division of Clinical Affairs, O'Fallon, IL 62269, USA. cherndon@ompus.jnj.com
Expert Opinion on Drug Safety
|August 9, 2003
Summary
Opioids are safe and effective pain relievers, but providers must anticipate and manage potential adverse drug events across multiple body systems. Prompt management ensures safe and efficacious opioid analgesia.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Pain Management
- Adverse Drug Events
Background:
- Opioids are often avoided for pain management due to concerns about adverse drug events.
- Despite potential side effects, opioids can be safe and effective analgesics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the spectrum of adverse events associated with opioid therapy.
- To emphasize the importance of anticipating and managing these side effects for safe opioid use.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of literature on opioid-related adverse events.
- Analysis of physiological changes across multiple organ systems due to opioid therapy.
Main Results:
- Opioid therapy can affect the central nervous, gastrointestinal, genito-urinary, integumentary, metabolic/endocrine, cardiovascular, pulmonary, hepatic/renal, ocular, and immune systems.
- Adverse events range from minor nuisances to therapy-limiting complications.
Conclusions:
- Opioid-induced adverse events are common but manageable with prompt and appropriate intervention.
- When side effects are considered and managed, opioids are safe and efficacious for pain relief.