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Laxatives, targeted therapy and lubiprostone are options when individualizing treatment for opioid-induced constipation in the elderly

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Abstract

The optimal management of opioid-induced constipation (OIC) involves the use of laxatives as prophylaxis and first-line therapy, with diet, lifestyle and medication modifications where appropriate, and targeted therapy (e.g. peripherally acting μ-opioid receptor antagonists) or lubiprostone in patients who do not respond adequately to, or who are not suitable candidates for laxative and lifestyle interventions. There are no specific guidelines for the treatment of OIC in the elderly, and treatment decisions should be based on the individual patient’s circumstances and/or limitations.

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    The article was adapted from Drugs and Aging 2016;33(8):557–74 [5] by salaried employees of Adis/Springer and was not supported by any external funding.

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    Adis Medical Writers. Laxatives, targeted therapy and lubiprostone are options when individualizing treatment for opioid-induced constipation in the elderly. Drugs Ther Perspect 33, 174–180 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40267-017-0389-7

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