When People with Opioid-Induced Constipation Speak: A Patient Survey

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Pain Management
• Patient-Reported Outcomes

Background:

• Opioid-induced constipation (OIC) is a prevalent adverse effect of opioid therapy for chronic pain.
• OIC negatively affects patients' quality of life and can compromise pain management efficacy.
• Healthcare providers must recognize and address patient expressions of OIC symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the personal impact of OIC on patients' daily lives.
• To understand the meanings patients associate with OIC symptom relief.
• To identify patient language used to describe OIC's effects.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was administered to adults experiencing OIC in multiple countries.
• The survey focused on open-ended text responses regarding quality of life implications and symptom relief meanings.
• Data analysis involved qualitative assessment of patient-generated text.

Main Results:

• Patient responses detailed physical, psychological, and practical burdens associated with OIC straining.
• Symptom relief was frequently linked to regaining freedom from OIC-related constraints.
• Patients actively communicate the challenges OIC presents.

Conclusions:

• Patients readily articulate the multifaceted problems caused by OIC.
• Insights into patient language regarding physical, psychological, and practical impacts can guide clinical communication.
• Effective engagement with patients about OIC is essential for optimal care.