Constipation as a side effect of opioids.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the phenomenon of opioid-induced constipation and its treatment.


METHODS
Published books and journal articles; commercial pharmacologic information.


RESULTS
Patients receiving opioid analgesia are at risk for constipation and its complications. A number of pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions are available to prevent and treat this problem.


CONCLUSIONS
Discomfort from this opioid side effect can be particularly distressing to patients with cancer who already suffer from pain. Accurate assessment and individualized interventions are needed.


CONCLUSIONS
Collaboration with physicians to determine appropriate drug or nondrug interventions and patient and family education regarding the problem, preventive action, and appropriate treatment methods.
Canty
S L
SL
Elmhurst Memorial Hospital, IL.
D002400:Cathartics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D003248:Constipation / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000451:nursing / Q000628:therapy; D004043:Dietary Fiber; D004064:Digestive System / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D009294:Narcotics / Q000009:adverse effects*
D002400:Cathartics; D004043:Dietary Fiber; D009294:Narcotics