13 Popular Medications That Could Be Draining Your Energy Levels

8. Opioids - Pain Relief with a Fatigue Price Tag

Opioids are powerful pain relievers used to manage moderate to severe pain, often following surgery or injury. While effective in reducing pain, opioids can also cause significant drowsiness and fatigue. They work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, altering the perception of pain and inducing a sense of euphoria. However, this also leads to sedation, reduced alertness, and impaired cognitive function. Long-term use of opioids can result in tolerance and dependence, complicating energy management further. Patients using opioids should be aware of these potential side effects and work with their healthcare providers to explore alternative pain management strategies if necessary.