What potential side effect should be monitored when administering opioid antagonists?

When administering opioid antagonists, the primary consideration is the potential for respiratory depression. Opioid antagonists, such as Naloxone, are specifically used to reverse the effects of opioids, particularly respiratory depression, which can occur due to opioid overdose or excessive use.

Respiratory depression is a serious and potentially life-threatening side effect, as opioids depress the central nervous system and can lead to a decrease in breath rate and depth. The administration of an opioid antagonist works by binding to the same receptors as the opioids, effectively displacing them and reversing their action, particularly on the respiratory centers of the brain.

While monitoring for gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea may be relevant in a broader pharmaceutical context, it is not the primary concern when administering opioid antagonists. The immediate risk associated with opioid use is respiratory depression, making it crucial to monitor breathing patterns and ensure the patient maintains adequate respiratory function during and after treatment with antagonists.