Reduction in pain: Is it worth the gain? The effect of opioids on the GI tract. Issue 5 (26th April 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Nee, J.; Rangan, V.; Lembo, A.
• Is Part Of: Neurogastroenterology & motility. Volume 30:Issue 5(2018)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2018-04-26
• Subjects: constipation -- dysmotility -- opioids; Gastrointestinal system -- Motility -- Periodicals; Gastrointestinal system -- Innervation -- Periodicals; 616.33
• DOI: 10.1111/nmo.13367
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1350-1925

Abstract

Abstract: The use of opioid medications for acute and chronic pain has increased significantly in the past 20 years in the United States. Given the high density of opioid receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, side effects are common in these patients including constipation, dysphagia, bloating, nausea, and vomiting. These side effects, which are experienced by most patients who take opioids, can lead to significant impairment in quality of life. Unlike other side effects from opioids, gastrointestinal side effects do not diminish with continued use, often leading patients to reduce or discontinue their opioid treatment to relieve these side effects. Therefore, physicians must be aware and anticipate potential side effects in patients receiving opioids to ensure appropriate pain management.