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Potential drug-induced constipation: A retrospective study using a Japanese claims database
Yusuke Karasawa1, Kazutaka Nozawa1, Atsushi Nakajima2
1Medical Affairs, Viatris Pharmaceuticals Japan Inc. Tokyo Japan.
Drug-induced constipation (DIC) affects about 11% of patients with constipation. Cardiovascular drugs are common culprits. Recognizing DIC is crucial for effective patient treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacovigilance
- Gastroenterology
- Real-world evidence
Background:
- Detailed clinical information on drug-induced constipation (DIC) is limited.
- This study investigated the real-world prevalence and characteristics of DIC.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the proportion of potential drug-induced constipation (pDIC) in a real-world setting.
- To identify causative drugs and associated factors for pDIC.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of a Japanese claims database (2014-2021).
- Propensity score matching of constipation and non-constipation cohorts with known causative drugs (CDs).
- Logistic regression to identify associated factors for pDIC.
Main Results:
- Potential DIC (pDIC) accounted for 10.9% of treated constipation cases.
- Cardiovascular drugs were the most frequently prescribed causative drugs (47.9%).
- Male sex, specific comorbidities, and all CD classes were associated with pDIC.
Conclusions:
- Approximately 11% of constipation cases may be drug-induced.
- Physicians must be aware of DIC to optimize treatment strategies, differentiating it from other constipation types.
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