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Management of constipation in people receiving palliative care
Taylan Gurgenci1, Phillip Good2, Jones Chen3
1FRACGP, FAChPM, Palliative Care Specialist, Department of Cancer Services, Mater Adult Hospital, South Brisbane, Qld.
Background:
Constipation is a common symptom in patients receiving palliative care and can significantly affect a person's quality of life.
Objective:
This article provides an overview of the assessment and management of constipation in patients receiving palliative care.
Discussion:
Management involves treatment of reversible causes, if appropriate, as well as both non-pharmacological and pharmacological interventions. Recommended laxatives for use in palliative care are osmotic laxatives and stimulant laxatives. Prophylactic use of laxatives when prescribing opioids is essential. Methylnaltrexone can be used to manage opioid-induced constipation but should be avoided in patients with bowel obstruction.
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