Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: 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.
Authors: Jones Chen, Phillip Good, Claire Stokes, Taylan Gurgenci
Language: English
Subfield: Gastroenterology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4412957805