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Review
. 2022 Mar;51(1):107-121.
doi: 10.1016/j.gtc.2021.10.007. Epub 2022 Jan 8.

Opioid-Related Constipation

Joy J Liu  1 , Darren M Brenner  2
Affiliations
Review

Opioid-Related Constipation

Joy J Liu et al. Gastroenterol Clin North Am. 2022 Mar.

Abstract

Opioid-related constipation encompasses constipation directly caused by opioid use (opioid-induced constipation [OIC]) as well as pre-existing constipation worsened by opioid use (opioid-exacerbated constipation [OEC]). Over-the-counter laxatives should be used as first-line agents for both OIC and OEC, given their efficacy, low cost, and high safety profiles. Symptoms of OIC and responses to therapy can be assessed with the Bowel Function Index. Individuals with OIC refractory to laxatives may be responsive to peripherally acting μ-opioid receptor antagonists. Although data supporting the superiority of one prescription agent over another is lacking, all have proven effective for the treatment of OIC.

Keywords: Constipation; Opioid; PAMORA; Pharmacotherapy.

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