AEMCA Practice Exam

What is a characteristic withdrawal symptom that may occur in opioid detoxification?

1. Elevated mood

2. Excessive sleep

3. Hyperventilation

4. Decreased appetite

The correct answer is: Hyperventilation

In the context of opioid detoxification, hyperventilation is a characteristic withdrawal symptom that can occur. When individuals who are dependent on opioids stop using the drugs, they may experience various physiological and psychological symptoms as their body readjusts to the absence of the substance. Hyperventilation is often associated with anxiety and panic, both of which can manifest during the withdrawal phase. As the body attempts to regain homeostasis without the influence of opioids, symptoms such as increased respiratory rate can be a direct response to heightened levels of anxiety and discomfort. It reflects the body's stress response to the absence of a substance that was previously used to manage pain or anxiety. In contrast, elevated mood and excessive sleep are not typical symptoms of opioid withdrawal. Elevated mood could be more indicative of a positive psychological response or stabilization rather than withdrawal. Excessive sleep might suggest sedation rather than heightened withdrawal symptoms. Decreased appetite does often occur during withdrawal; however, hyperventilation is more closely aligned with the acute physical symptoms that arise when the body is adapting to the lack of opioids. Therefore, hyperventilation stands out as a significant characteristic withdrawal symptom in this scenario.