What potential side effect should patients be warned about with opioid use?

Patients should be warned about the potential for respiratory depression and constipation when using opioids because these are well-documented and significant side effects associated with this class of medications. Opioids work by binding to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which can lead to a decrease in the body's ability to breathe adequately, particularly in higher doses. This slowing of the respiratory rate can be dangerous and even life-threatening, especially when opioids are used in combination with other central nervous system depressants, such as benzodiazepines or alcohol.

Additionally, opioids can cause constipation due to their effects on the gastrointestinal tract. They decrease gastrointestinal motility, leading to slower transit of stool through the intestines, which can result in discomfort and difficulty with bowel movements. This side effect is so common that it often requires the implementation of preventive measures or additional treatment, such as laxatives, in patients using opioids for pain management.

The other potential side effects listed, while they may occur with other medications or in different contexts, are not primarily associated with opioid use and do not reflect the most important concerns that healthcare providers typically emphasize when advising patients on opioid therapy.