Which of the following is a typical side effect experienced from opioid use?

Constipation is a well-known and common side effect of opioid use, primarily due to the way opioids interact with the gastrointestinal tract. Opioids bind to specific receptors in the gut that can slow down bowel motility, leading to decreased peristalsis and a prolongation of stool transit time. This effect can make bowel movements infrequent, harder to pass, and lead to discomfort for patients.

While other side effects like dry mouth and headaches can occur with opioid use, they are not as directly linked to the pharmacological action of opioids as constipation is. Insomnia may arise as a side effect due to various factors, including pain management dynamics or changes in daily routines, but it does not stem from the same mechanism as constipation. Understanding the specific side effects associated with opioid medications is crucial in community pharmacy settings to manage and counsel patients effectively on their therapy.