Which of the following is a common side effect of naloxone?

Naloxone is an opioid antagonist commonly used to reverse the effects of opioid overdose. One of the well-known side effects of naloxone is that it can precipitate withdrawal symptoms in individuals who are dependent on opioids. This occurs because naloxone displaces opioids from the receptor sites in the brain, quickly reversing their effects and resulting in sudden withdrawal in a person who has developed a tolerance or dependence on opioids.

Withdrawal symptoms may include agitation, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, sweating, and various physical discomforts. Understanding this effect is crucial for healthcare providers administering naloxone, as it underscores the importance of monitoring patients for signs of withdrawal after administration.

The other options do not relate as directly to naloxone's expected effects. Increased alertness can be a positive outcome of reversing opioid effects, but it is not a side effect in the traditional sense. Respiratory depression is associated with opioid use rather than with naloxone, which counters this effect. Excessive sedation is not typical with naloxone, as its primary function is to reverse sedation caused by opioids. Thus, knowing that naloxone can induce withdrawal symptoms helps delineate its role and effects in clinical practice.