Effect of Opioid drug Use on the Level of Stress and Sleep Pattern among Older Adult Patient in Geriatric Centers: A Systematic Review
Author(s): Falah Dakka*
Abstract
Prescription opioids are used to treat moderate and severe pain. The drugs are highly used among older adults in geriatric centers with chronic pain. However, prolonged use of the drugs can lead to dependence and other adverse health effects. This systematic review investigates the effects of opioids on the level of stress and sleep patterns among older adult patients in geriatric centers. The review found that opioids worsen stress levels and adversely impact sleep patterns among older adults. Long-term opioid use is significantly linked with incident and recurrent stress-related disorders. The adverse effect on levels of stress increases with duration of use and increase in dosage. Similarly, opioid use leads to poor-quality sleep and disrupts sleep architecture, such as causing longer stage 2 sleep and shorter stage 3 and 4 sleep.
