What are typical opioid withdrawal symptoms?

• A. Yawning, rhinorrhea, lacrimation, gooseflesh, muscle aches, sweating, pupillary dilation, nausea, GI distress.
• B. Sedation, slowed breathing, hypotension.
• C. Euphoria, increased appetite, hypotension.
• D. Rash and pruritus, confusion.

Answer: (A)

Opioid withdrawal is marked by autonomic hyperactivity and flu-like symptoms after stopping opioids. The signs listed in the correct option—yawning, rhinorrhea, lacrimation, gooseflesh, muscle aches, sweating, pupillary dilation, and nausea with GI distress—are classic withdrawal symptoms that reflect the body's rebound response to the loss of opioid receptor activation. They arise from increased sympathetic activity and withdrawal of mu-opioid receptor stimulation, leading to widespread autonomic and gastrointestinal effects.

The other options describe features more typical of opioid intoxication or non-opioid reactions: sedation and slowed breathing occur with overdose, while euphoria and hypotension point to acute intoxication as well. Rash or pruritus with confusion isn’t characteristic of withdrawal and could indicate an allergic reaction or another condition.