High opioid use in older people with COPD raises safety concerns

Researchers are raising safety concerns about high rates of new opioid use among older adults with COPD, according to a study. Opioids, such as codeine, oxycodone and morphine might be prescribed more frequently among older adults with COPD to treat chronic muscle pain, breathlessness and insomnia. Common side effects of opioids include falls and fractures, confusion, memory impairment, fatigue, constipation, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.

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