Constipation

Common with opioids and reduced activity in advanced illness.

Prevent constipation from opioids through daily use of laxative

Drugs

Osmotic laxative

  • PEG 3350 17-34g in juice daily
  • lactulose 15-30ml daily or bid

Stimulant

  • senna 1-3 tabs daily to bid

Suppository

  • glycerin or bisacodyl

Softeners

  • docusate not supported by evidence

Other therapies

Encourage:

  • regular bowel routine
  • privacy
  • activity if possible
  • oral fluids

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