Which of the following is a common effect of opioid drug abuse in the short term?

Nausea is a common short-term effect of opioid drug abuse due to the way these substances interact with the body. Opioids bind to specific receptors in the brain and body, which can disrupt normal signaling pathways. This interference can lead to gastrointestinal disturbances, including nausea. Alongside this, opioid use can slow down the digestive system, which might also contribute to feelings of nausea.

In contrast, while increased sleep might seem plausible since opioids are depressants and can induce drowsiness, they can also disrupt normal sleep patterns leading to sleep disturbances in the long run. Panic attacks are typically associated with withdrawal symptoms rather than short-term abuse, and weight loss may occur over a longer duration of substance abuse due to decreased appetite and nutritional neglect, but it isn't a common immediate effect following consumption.