Doctors typically prescribe narcotic pain relievers for greater than normal pain. Less powerful drugs have uses for everyday pain such as headaches and minor arthritis inflammation, but they generally do not alleviate severe pain. Narcotics typically treat post-operative pain symptoms, pain associated with major injuries and cancer. Derived from the opium plant, narcotics suppress the nerve impulses that carry pain signals to the brain. Because of the addictive nature of narcotics, they remain as controlled substances available with a prescription from a physician. Opioid medications include hydrocodone with acetaminophen, fentanyl, morphine, methadone and codeine, among others.
Constipation
Most people who begin use with narcotic pain relievers experience a period of constipation. Opioids slows down the movements of the muscles of the bowels which causes constipation. The Mayo Clinic reports constipation occurs more often with use of codeine for long-term pain relief, but Drugs.com lists the inability to move the bowels as a common, non-serious and temporary side effect of such narcotics as oxycodone, methadone, fentanyl and morphine. A doctor should be consulted if constipation becomes severe or doesn't stop.
Nausea
Nausea and vomiting typically occur because the body needs to adjust to having the narcotic pain reliever in the system. Feelings of queasiness generally end as this adjustment occurs. If nausea becomes bothersome, it should be reported to the doctor; it may be a sign that there is increased constipation and non-movement of stool in the bowel.
Drowsiness
Drowsiness occurs with narcotic use because opioids produce a sedative effect. Because narcotics suppress the central nervous system, they calm the pain centers of the brain, which relaxes the person. The brain becomes influenced by the sedative effect and drowsiness occurs. The person will appear tired and the eyes may be droopy. This effect, too, typically ends as the adjustment period to the drug ends. Drowsiness classifies as a non-serious and common side effect.
Dizziness
Dizziness is a common complaint while taking narcotic pain relievers. The patient complains of feeling light-headed and may experience a lack of equilibrium. He will say his head feels as though it is spinning. Dizziness also fades as treatment with narcotics continues.
Dry Mouth
Narcotic pain relievers also tend to temporarily reduce the production of saliva, causing the condition known as dry mouth. The lack of saliva may make it difficult to swallow. It also may affect a person’s ability to speak because of dryness on the tongue. This, too, should cease without medical help.
