Which of the following is a common adverse effect of Fentanyl?

Fentanyl, a potent opioid analgesic, is primarily used for managing severe pain. One of the significant and well-documented adverse effects associated with its use is respiratory depression. This occurs because fentanyl, like other opioids, acts on the central nervous system to increase pain relief but can also diminish the brain’s responsiveness to carbon dioxide levels, subsequently leading to shallow or slow breathing.

Respiratory depression can be particularly dangerous and is a primary concern when administering any opioid, especially in non-tolerant individuals or in situations of overdose. It is crucial for healthcare providers to closely monitor patients receiving fentanyl for signs of this adverse effect, ensuring timely intervention if breathing becomes compromised.

Other potential adverse effects of fentanyl may exist, but they are less commonly noted in clinical practice compared to respiratory depression.