Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 4, 2026

Acupoint Application Combined with Acupoint Massage for Treating Constipation in a Patient with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Published on: August 18, 2023
Current concepts in the management of opioid-induced constipation
John Brandon Walters1, Marcos Montagnini
1Hospice of the Western Reserve, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
Abstract:
Patients with chronic pain on daily opioid therapy are frequently burdened with symptoms of constipation. Opioid-induced constipation (OIC) contributes to an overall negative impact on the quality of life and may result in poor pain management outcomes. Laxative agents are crucial in opioid-related pain management. Following a careful assessment, a stepwise approach to OIC may provide comfort and relief to patients. This article reviews the pathophysiology, assessment, and pharmacological treatment of OIC. Novel approaches for OIC such as the peripheral opioid receptor antagonists and selective serotonin antagonists are also discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Opioids as Antidiarrheal Agents
Opioids, widely used antidiarrheal agents, mitigate diarrhea by slowing down...
Drugs for Treatment of Constipation-Predominant IBS
Drugs for Treatment of Diarrhea-Predominant IBS
Two specific drugs used in the treatment are alosetron (Lotronex) and eluxadoline (Viberzi). Alosetron, a 5-HT3 antagonist, works by slowing the movement of stools in the gut, reducing bowel...
Irritable Bowel Syndrome III: Medical and Nursing Management
Analgesia and Pain Management
Opioid Analgesics: Synthetic and Semisynthetic Opioids