Common Clinical Practice for Opioid-Induced Constipation: A Physician Survey.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Pharmacology
• Clinical Practice

Background:

• Opioid-induced constipation (OIC) is a significant clinical challenge impacting patient quality of life.
• Existing guidelines and treatments for OIC management are not uniformly applied.
• Physician perceptions and practices regarding OIC require investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey Italian physicians prescribing opioids regarding their common practices and perceptions of OIC.
• To identify knowledge gaps and variations in OIC management across different medical specialties.

Main Methods:

• An online survey with 26 questions was administered to physicians.
• Responses were analyzed descriptively and stratified by physician specialty.
• Data collection focused on OIC assessment, treatment preferences, and physician education.

Main Results:

• 67% of 501 surveyed physicians felt inadequately educated about OIC.
• While most physicians assessed OIC symptoms, validated instruments like Rome IV criteria were rarely used.
• Macrogol was the preferred first-line treatment; peripheral-acting mu opioid receptor antagonists (PAMORAs) were underutilized (61% never prescribed).

Conclusions:

• Significant variations in OIC clinical practice exist among physician specialties in Italy.
• There is a clear need for targeted educational initiatives to improve OIC management and awareness of best practices.