Which of the following best describes a common presentation of opiate withdrawal?

Which of the following best describes a common presentation of opiate withdrawal?

• A. Increased vital signs and autonomic symptoms
• B. Constricted pupils and bradycardia
• C. Decreased respiratory rate and sedation
• D. Lethargy

Answer: (D)

Opiate withdrawal is driven by autonomic hyperactivity rather than sedation. The typical picture includes tachycardia, hypertension, sweating, yawning, rhinorrhea and lacrimation, piloerection, dilated pupils, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, and agitation. Descriptions that emphasize increased vital signs and autonomic symptoms fit this withdrawal profile best. In contrast, lethargy implies CNS depression or sedation, which is not characteristic of withdrawal, and signs like constricted pupils or slowed breathing point to opioid intoxication or overdose rather than withdrawal.

Opiate withdrawal is driven by autonomic hyperactivity rather than sedation. The typical picture includes tachycardia, hypertension, sweating, yawning, rhinorrhea and lacrimation, piloerection, dilated pupils, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, and agitation. Descriptions that emphasize increased vital signs and autonomic symptoms fit this withdrawal profile best. In contrast, lethargy implies CNS depression or sedation, which is not characteristic of withdrawal, and signs like constricted pupils or slowed breathing point to opioid intoxication or overdose rather than withdrawal.