Opiates and Opioids
Bits & Pieces
The "Bits & Pieces" section is intended for random snippets of information which don't fit
easily elsewhere and/or which have been newly added, but not yet carefully categorized.
easily elsewhere and/or which have been newly added, but not yet carefully categorized.
- Antihistamines reduce nausea, vertigo, itchingCommon over-the-counter antihistamines can be effective at reducing annoying, unwanted side effects from opioids such as nausea, vertigo, and itching. Although many chronic opioid users become tolerant to these effects, those treating short term pain with opioids or using them irregularly can find the side effects very unpleasant. One side effect that antihistamines do not treat and is essentially never overcome with repeated use is constipation / reduced gut motility.
Note that some antihistamines (such as diphenhydramine) cause drowsiness and sedation on their own and can combine with opioids to lead to unconsciousness. Combining high dose opiates/opioids and diphenhydramine should be done only with caution and, ideally, only after consulting one's prescribing physician.