Opioids cause changes in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract that make having a bowel movement more difficult.
This article will describe the causes of opioid-induced constipation and the lifestyle factors that could raise your risk.
Opioids are used to treat pain and work by blocking the pain receptors in the brain.
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Common opioid medications include:
Decreased Motility
Opioid drugs affect the mu receptors in the gastrointestinal tract.
The mu receptors control the contraction of the muscles in the GI tract.
This is known asintestinal motility.
This leads to stool remaining in the gastrointestinal tract instead of leaving the body.
Fewer Mucosal Secretions
Mucosal secretions in the gastrointestinal tract are also affected by opioid medications.
When this dry stool is eventually passed, it can cause pain and even bleeding.
When it is contracted, you may notice that it feels difficult to have a bowel movement.
Lifestyle Risk Factors
Lifestyle factors alone cannot cause opioid-induced constipation.
However, you may be more likely to experience opioid-induced constipation if you are already prone to constipation.
CDC Guidelines
It may be helpful to understand how your doctor decides when to prescribe opioid medication.
Summary
Opioid-induced constipation is triggered by taking opioid medications such as oxycodone, morphine, or codeine.
These medications lead to constipation because they cause physical changes in the gastrointestinal tract.
These changes include decreased motility (capability to move), fewer mucosal secretions, and anal sphincter contraction.
Lifestyle factors like diet and exercise may help relievesymptoms of opioid-induced constipation.
A Word From Verywell
Opioid-induced constipation is an uncomfortable condition that can affect your quality of life.
Its helpful to remember that opioid-induced constipation is treatable.
Seek help as soon as you develop symptoms to minimize the risk of complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, opioid-induced constipation is treatable.
Laxative medications are considered the first-line treatment and can be started right away.
Talk with your physician about beginning a laxative regimen at the same time you start a new opioid medication.
This may help to reduce constipation symptoms and discomfort.
Constipation triggered by opioid medications usually requires laxative treatment.
Opioid-induced constipation is usually diagnosed with a thorough medical history.
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and your current medications.
Opioid-induced constipation may begin as soon as you start taking opioids or it may develop slowly.
MedlinePlus.Pain medications - narcotics.
Updated May 13, 2019.
Pharmacy Times.Management of opioid-induced constipation.
Updated September 23, 2016.
