What is a common side effect of opioid pain medications?

Opioid pain medications are commonly associated with certain predictable side effects due to their action on the central nervous system and gastrointestinal tract. One of the hallmark side effects is constipation, which occurs because opioids bind to receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, slowing down gut motility. Additionally, drowsiness is prevalent as opioids can cause sedation, impacting a patient's level of alertness and overall energy levels. Due to these mechanisms, the combination of constipation and drowsiness is a well-recognized consequence of opioid therapy, making it essential for healthcare providers to monitor and manage these effects in patients receiving these medications.