What are common withdrawal symptoms seen in patients experiencing IOWS?

Withdrawal symptoms from opioids, particularly those associated with immediate opioid withdrawal syndrome (IOWS), often include physical and psychological manifestations. Agitation and vomiting are classic symptoms that arise during withdrawal.

Agitation occurs as the body reacts to the absence of the opioid, leading to heightened anxiety and restlessness. This psychological symptom is a natural response to the body's dependency on the substance and reflects a state of discomfort as it struggles to recalibrate to its pre-opioid usage state.

Vomiting, on the other hand, is a physiological response, as the gastrointestinal system can become upset during withdrawal due to changes in how opioids affect gut motility and the central nervous system. The removal of opioids leads to an imbalance that may cause nausea and vomiting.

The other options present symptoms that are generally not associated with opioid withdrawal. Increased appetite and fatigue, weight gain and irritability, as well as frequent sleep and a relaxed demeanor do not typically characterize withdrawal; instead, they could suggest a contrasting state. Understanding the specific symptoms related to IOWS is crucial for recognizing and managing withdrawal effectively.