OPIOIDS (e.g., Morphine, Fentanyl, Oxycodone), ANXIOLYTICS and SEDATIVE HYPNOTICS

High-Risk Concerns with Opioids and Anxiolytics

•       High Risk: Respiratory depression, overdose, addiction, sedation, falls/injuries.

General Guidance:

• Do not ignore any unusual symptoms.

• Mild symptoms should be reported to your home health agency.

• Severe symptoms require emergency medical attention.

Call Your Home Health Agency Immediately if You Experience:

·       Increased drowsiness

·       Mild nausea or vomiting that doesn’t improve

·       Constipation that is persistent or severe

·       Mild dizziness or lightheadedness

·       Mild itching or rash

·       Trouble urinating

Go to the Emergency Room (or Call 911) If You Have:

·       Severe difficulty breathing (shortness of breath, gasping, blue lips/fingernails)

·       Extreme drowsiness or difficulty waking up

·       Unresponsiveness or inability to stay awake

·       Slow or irregular breathing (e.g., long pauses between breaths)

·       Severe confusion or hallucinations

·       Severe chest pain or rapid heartbeat

·       Seizures

·       Signs of overdose: small pinpoint pupils, extreme drowsiness, and slowed breaths

© 2025 Judith Regan / K.N.O.W. – Knowledge for Nurturing Optimal Well-Being. All rights reserved. | Educational use only | Not a substitute for medical advice | In emergencies call 911