What is the most common side effect of intraspinal narcotics in the obstetric population?

What is the most common side effect of intraspinal narcotics in the obstetric population?

• A. Pruritus
• B. Nausea and vomiting
• C. Respiratory depression
• D. Urinary retention

Answer: (A)

Pruritus is the most common side effect after intrathecal opioids in obstetric patients because activation of mu receptors in the spinal cord and brainstem reliably triggers itch signals, often occurring with neuraxial morphine or other intrathecal opioids. This itching tends to be very frequent and can be quite bothersome, even though it is not dangerous, which makes it more prevalent than other opioid-related effects in this setting. Respiratory depression, while the most serious concern, is uncommon with the typical obstetric doses and careful monitoring. Nausea and vomiting can occur but are not as consistently reported after intrathecal administration as pruritus, and urinary retention is possible but generally less frequent than itching.

Pruritus is the most common side effect after intrathecal opioids in obstetric patients because activation of mu receptors in the spinal cord and brainstem reliably triggers itch signals, often occurring with neuraxial morphine or other intrathecal opioids. This itching tends to be very frequent and can be quite bothersome, even though it is not dangerous, which makes it more prevalent than other opioid-related effects in this setting. Respiratory depression, while the most serious concern, is uncommon with the typical obstetric doses and careful monitoring. Nausea and vomiting can occur but are not as consistently reported after intrathecal administration as pruritus, and urinary retention is possible but generally less frequent than itching.