Opioid-induced constipation (OIC) represents the most common of gastrointestinal (GI) effects when initiating, changing, or increasing opioid use, which includes (but is not limited to) opioids like morphine, tramadol, fentanyl, and oxycodone.1
When you take an opioid to manage pain, it can cause constipation, as these painkillers also affect your digestive tract, limiting how well your intestines work. With constipation, you may experience; reduced bowel movements – how often and how easily you go to the toilet (passing stool, pooing, or however you refer to it), difficulty/straining or discomfort while going to the toilet and also, incomplete evacuation - the feeling of not getting everything out when going to the toilet.2
But OIC is common. You never need to feel that you are alone in this. Most importantly, OIC is manageable.2
It may not be a subject you feel comfortable speaking about, but it’s important to remember that it’s not something you should be embarrassed about. The healthcare professionals you speak with will also know that constipation can be very distressing, and they will want to help you.
If you haven't been told about the potential of developing OIC while taking opioids, and for you, this is a concern, you need to let your healthcare professionals know and they can tell you more about it.
How common is OIC?
Between 41-87% of patients taking opioids report OIC of people taking opioids suffer from OIC – that’s as many as four out of every five people.3
