51
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Pharmaceutical interventions facilitate premedication and prevent opioid-induced constipation and emesis in cancer patients. Support Care Cancer 2009; 18:1531-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-009-0775-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2009] [Accepted: 10/28/2009] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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52
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Gruenwald J, Busch R, Bentley C. Efficacy and tolerability of Laxatan Granulat in patients with chronic constipation. Clin Exp Gastroenterol 2009; 2:95-100. [PMID: 21694832 PMCID: PMC3108648 DOI: 10.2147/ceg.s6236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2009] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: On average 12% of the population worldwide suffer from acute or chronic constipation. Pathological intestine alterations, an unhealthy diet with reduced liquid intake, and little exercise are potential reasons. Often the motility of the intestine is disturbed. Changing nutrition habits or lifestyle is not always successful. In such cases, laxatives containing macrogol and inulin are highly effective. Methodology: The efficacy and tolerability of Laxatan® Granulat, a laxative containing macrogol, inulin, and mineral salts, was assessed in a drug-monitoring study of 105 patients for four weeks. Results: At the end of this study, a highly significant reduction of the constipation symptoms in 98.1% of the patients was observed. No adverse events were reported during this drug-monitoring study. The overall efficacy was rated as being “very good” or “good” for 96% and the overall tolerability was rated as being “very good” or “good” for 99% of patients. Conclusion: The combination of macrogol, inulin, and mineral salts is highly effective in the treatment of chronic constipation. Due to its prebiotic activity, inulin probably leads to proliferation of lactic acid-producing bacteria. The lowered pH and increased water content probably increases the peristaltic action and therefore reduces constipation.
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53
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[Opioid-induced bowel dysfunction: a literature analysis on pathophysiology and treatment]. Wien Med Wochenschr 2009; 158:621-6. [PMID: 19052708 DOI: 10.1007/s10354-008-0589-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2008] [Accepted: 06/17/2008] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Bowel dysfunction is a frequent and serious side effect of opioid analgetics. In spite of its common occurrence, in the course of clinical routine, it is frequently ignored or underestimated. Authors of the analysed literature widely agree that a prophylactic and routine pharmacotherapy is necessary. For this purpose, laxatives, enemas and suppositories, prokinetic agents and opioid antagonists can be considered. Bulk-forming laxatives did not prove to be effective, since the quantity of fluid intake required for the action usually cannot be provided. Furthermore, the benefit of emollient agents is doubted. As a monotherapy they are not sufficient. By contrast, stimulant and osmotic laxatives proved to be active. Prokinetic drugs are not recommended because of their serious side effects. Effective abatement of opioid-induced obstipation by opioid antagonists has been proven in numerous studies. However, the loss of analgesia and opioid withdrawal symptoms were described as adverse effects. Development of quaternary opioid antagonists such as methylnaltrexone was allowed for mitigating these adverse effects.
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54
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Adeyemo MA, Chang L. New treatments for irritable bowel syndrome in women. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 4:605-22; quiz 623. [PMID: 19072463 DOI: 10.2217/17455057.4.6.605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The estimated prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in Western countries is 7-15%, with a female:male ratio of 2-2.5:1 in IBS patients who seek healthcare services; however, the female predominance is lower in the general population. IBS has a significant impact on health-related quality of life and is associated with a significant healthcare and economic burden. Management of IBS is comprised of general measures and pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment. However, there are ongoing efforts to find more effective therapeutic approaches. As advancements in the understanding of the pathophysiology of IBS continue to grow, new and effective treatments with novel mechanisms of action that have the potential to improve relief of IBS symptoms over current treatments are likely to be developed. This article provides an overview of current and emerging therapies for IBS and also highlights sex and gender differences in clinical trials and treatment response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mopelola A Adeyemo
- Center for Neurobiology of Stress, Division of Digestive Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 11301 Wilshire Blvd, Building 115, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA.
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55
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Borgsteede SD, Deliens L, Zuurmond WWA, Schellevis FG, Willems DL, Van der Wal G, van Eijk JTM. Prescribing of pain medication in palliative care. A survey in general practice. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2009; 18:16-23. [DOI: 10.1002/pds.1678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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56
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A dietary fiber mixture versus lactulose in the treatment of childhood constipation: a double-blind randomized controlled trial. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2008; 47:592-7. [PMID: 18979582 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0b013e318162c43c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Constipation is a common problem in children. As first-line treatment, increased dietary fiber is often advocated. To our knowledge, however, no large studies evaluating the effect of dietary fibers in childhood constipation have been published. PATIENTS AND METHODS A randomized, double-blind, prospective controlled study was performed. Patients received either a fiber mixture or lactulose in a yogurt drink. After a baseline period of 1 week, patients were treated for 8 weeks followed by 4 weeks of weaning. Polyethylene glycol 3350 was added if no clinical improvement was observed after 3 weeks. Using a standardized bowel diary, parents recorded defecation frequency during the treatment period. In addition, incontinence frequency, stool consistency, presence of abdominal pain and flatulence, necessity for step-up medication, and dry weight of feces were recorded, as were adverse effects. RESULTS A total of 147 children were eligible; 12 children wished not to participate. Of the remaining children, 65 were randomized to treatment with fiber mixture and 70 to treatment with lactulose. In all, 97 children completed the study. No difference was found between the groups after the treatment period concerning defecation frequency (P = 0.481) and fecal incontinence frequency (P = 0.084). However, consistency of stools was softer in the lactulose group (P = 0.01). Abdominal pain and flatulence scores were comparable (P = 0.395 and P = 0.739, respectively). The necessity of step-up medication during the treatment period was comparable (P = 0.996), as were taste scores (P = 0.657). No serious adverse effects were registered. CONCLUSIONS A fluid fiber mixture and lactulose give comparable results in the treatment of childhood constipation.
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57
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Stevens A, Droney J, Riley J. Managing and treating opioid−induced constipation in patients with cancer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008. [DOI: 10.12968/gasn.2008.6.9.31774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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58
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Kopf A. [Constipation as an adverse drug reaction]. PHARMAZIE IN UNSERER ZEIT 2008; 37:162-166. [PMID: 18293325 DOI: 10.1002/pauz.200700260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Kopf
- Benjamin Franklin Schmerzzentrum, Klinik für Anästhesiologie und operative Intensivmedizin Charité, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12200 Berlin.
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59
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Becker G, Galandi D, Blum HE. Peripherally acting opioid antagonists in the treatment of opiate-related constipation: a systematic review. J Pain Symptom Manage 2007; 34:547-65. [PMID: 17900855 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2006.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2006] [Revised: 12/19/2006] [Accepted: 12/21/2006] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Many patients treated with opioids suffer from constipation. Opiate- or opioid-related constipation is not only a frequent but also a distressing symptom and difficult to treat. There is emerging evidence regarding a novel approach to the management of opiate-related constipation. The aim of this paper is to collect, critically appraise, and summarize the evidence on the effectiveness of recently developed peripherally acting micro-receptor antagonists in the treatment of opiate-related constipation. A comprehensive search of 11 computerized databases was conducted and efforts were made to identify unpublished and ongoing research. Twenty studies were identified; 13 were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 7 were Phase II studies assessing toxicity. Studies were mainly executed in healthy volunteers or members of methadone programs with opioid-induced constipation as a model to mimic the condition of patients on opioids. Two RCTs were conducted in hospice patients. Quality of study design and validity of the findings was assessed in all studies. Data show proof of concept but do not allow a definitive answer concerning the effectiveness of the peripherally acting micro-opioid antagonists methylnaltrexone and alvimopan in managing opiate-related constipation. Further research is needed. If future Phase III trials provide supportive data, opioid antagonists may become a standard therapeutic option for the treatment of opiate-related constipation in patients with advanced cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerhild Becker
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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60
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Chronic Constipation. Am J Nurs 2007. [DOI: 10.1097/00000446-200704000-00030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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61
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62
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Miles CL, Fellowes D, Goodman ML, Wilkinson S. Laxatives for the management of constipation in palliative care patients. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2006:CD003448. [PMID: 17054172 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd003448.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Constipation is a common problem for palliative care patients which can generate considerable suffering for patients due to both the unpleasant physical symptoms and psychological preoccupations that can arise. There is uncertainty about the 'best' management of constipation in palliative care patients and variation in practice between palliative care settings. OBJECTIVES To determine the effectiveness of laxative administration for the management of constipation in palliative care patients, and the differential efficacy of the laxatives used to manage constipation. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched The Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library Issue four, 2005), MEDLINE (1966 to January 2005), EMBASE (1980 to January 2005), CANCERLIT, PUBMED, Science Citation Index, CINAHL, The Cochrane Library, SIGLE, NTIS, DHSS-DATA, Dissertation Abstracts, Index to Scientific and Technical Proceedings and NHS-NRR and reference lists of articles. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing laxatives for constipation in palliative care patients. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed trial quality and extracted patient-reported data measuring changes in stool frequency and ease of passing stools, using objective and validated scales. Tolerance or adverse effects of laxatives used were also sought. The appropriateness of synthesizing data from the controlled trials depended upon the clinical and statistical homogeneity of studies identified. If the controlled trials were homogeneous, a meta-analysis would be attempted. MAIN RESULTS Four trials involving 280 people were included. Between these trials, the laxatives lactulose; senna; danthron combined with poloxamer (Co-danthramer); Misrakasneham; magnesium hydroxide combined with liquid paraffin (Milpar) were evaluated. All four trials included number and frequency of bowel movements and relative ease of defecation as part of the assessment of laxative efficacy. All of the laxatives demonstrated a limited level of efficacy, although a significant number of participants required rescue laxatives in each of the studies. The only significantly different treatments were in the trial where lactulose plus senna were more effective than danthron combined with poloxamer. Patient preference did not favour either treatment option. Other related systematic reviews have similarly identified that there is a lack of evidence to support the use of one laxative, or combination of laxatives, over another. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The treatment of constipation in palliative care is based on inadequate experimental evidence, such that there are insufficient RCT data. Recommendations for laxative use can be related to costs as much as to efficacy. There have been few comparative studies, equally there have been few direct comparisons between different classes of laxative and between different combinations of laxatives. There persists an uncertainty about the 'best' management of constipation in this group of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- C L Miles
- Royal Free & University College Medical School, Marie Curie Palliative Care R&D unit, Department of Mental Health Services, Hampstead Campus, Rowland Hill Street, London, UK.
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63
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Abstract
Constipation and diarrhea are both common problems in patients with advanced cancer. They are source of major morbidity and distress. Constipation is, overall, more common that diarrhea. Diarrhea may be severe and, in some cases, associated with life-threatening dehydration and electrolyte abnormalities. Indeed, with some of the newer chemotherapy agents, this is a problem seen with increasing frequency. Oncologists must be familiar with the common causes of constipation and diarrhea in cancer patients and the strategies to evaluate and manage these common and distressing symptoms. Both with constipation and diarrhea, there is a differential diagnosis. In many cases, management can be complex and challenging. Approaches to diagnosis, evaluation, and management are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Solomon
- Department of Oncology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
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Dahlin C, Lynch M, Szmuilowicz E, Jackson V. Management of Symptoms Other than Pain. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 24:39-60, viii. [PMID: 16487895 DOI: 10.1016/j.atc.2005.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Symptom management requires an understanding of the likely cause of the symptom in the individual patient, comprehensive assessment, and evidence-based interventions. This article explores the management strategies for common symptoms encountered in palliative care practice. Stomatitis, xerostomia, dysphagia, nausea and vomiting, anorexia, constipation, dyspnea, and fatigue are among the symptoms reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constance Dahlin
- Palliative Care Service, Founders 604, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114-2696, USA.
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65
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66
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Abstract
In cancer pain therapy treatment with strong opioids is essential. However, it may be accompanied by the occurrence of various adverse effects. The most frequent and persistent side effect in the course of opioid treatment is constipation. It is mainly caused by linkage of the opioid to the peripheral mu-receptors in the bowel and may increase as a result of certain concomitant circumstances, such as poor intake of fluids or electrolyte disorder. Present research indicates that there is a relation between type of opioid and degree of constipation, i.e. treatment with transdermal fentanyl or methadone tends to cause less constipation compared to morphine or hydromorphone. The route of administration of morphine--oral vs. subcutaneous--does not seem to affect the incidence of opioid-induced constipation. Furthermore, prophylaxis and efficient control of opioid-induced constipation still fail to be part of the routine in pain treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Schwarzer
- Klinik für Anästhesiologie und Operative Intensivmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Bonn.
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67
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Abstract
Various agents are used for the medical management of chronic constipation, but few of these have been adequately studied. This article specifically examines the medical treatment of chronic constipation and the available data concerning bulk agents, lubricating agents, stimulants, and osmotic laxatives, used alone and in combination. Most experts consider dietary fiber or medicinal bulk agents to be the initial therapeutic option for the treatment of chronic constipation. If fiber is not successful or poorly tolerated, subsequent treatments may include saline osmotic laxatives, lactulose, 5-hydroxytryptamine4 (5-HT(4)) agonists (tegaserod), or stimulants such as senna or bisacodyl. Recent data also demonstrate both polyethylene glycol laxative and tegaserod to be safe and effective as initial therapy for chronic constipation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan D. Siegel
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Mobile, Alabama
| | - Jack A. Di Palma
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Mobile, Alabama
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68
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Bosshard W, Dreher R, Schnegg JF, Büla CJ. The treatment of chronic constipation in elderly people: an update. Drugs Aging 2005; 21:911-30. [PMID: 15554750 DOI: 10.2165/00002512-200421140-00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Constipation is a common problem in elderly persons, with prevalence ranging from 15% to 20% in the community-dwelling elderly population and up to 50% in some studies of nursing home residents. In these patients, constipation results from a combination of risk factors, such as reduced fibre and fluid intake, decreased physical activity resulting from chronic diseases and multiple medications. Despite the high prevalence of constipation, there is surprisingly little evidence available on which to base management decisions of this common condition. Increased fluid intake, regular physical activity and high fibre intake are usually proposed as first step nonpharmacological measures. However, adherence to these measures is limited and pharmacological treatment is frequently required. Data are too limited, especially in elderly persons, to formally recommend one class of laxatives over another or one agent over another within each class. However, bulk-forming and osmotic laxatives are usually recommended as first-line agents, even though data on their effectiveness are limited. The need to maintain good hydration is a limitation in the use of bulk-forming laxatives, in particular, in frail elderly patients. In these patients, polyethylene glycol, an osmotic agent, is an attractive alternative. In addition, it has been shown to relieve faecal impaction in frail patients with neurological disease. Its cost and potential danger in patients at high risk for aspiration is, however, a limitation. Stimulant laxatives are considered mainly as an intermittent treatment in patients who do not respond to bulk-forming or osmotic laxatives. Several promising compounds such as the new serotonin 5-HT4 receptor agonists (tegaserod, prucalopride) and neurotrophin-3 (NT3) have not been adequately tested in older individuals. They are not routinely used and their role in the management of constipation in these patients will be more precisely defined in the future. Other treatment options are available (acupuncture, biofeedback, botulinum toxin and surgery), but experience with these interventions in elderly patients is limited and their indications in this population remain to be clarified. Management of constipation in elderly persons depends largely on experience and beliefs. Several new compounds seem promising but will need to be specifically tested in this population before being recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanda Bosshard
- Division of Geriatric Medicine and Geriatric Rehabilitation, Department of Internal Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
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69
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Cherny NI. Taking care of the terminally ill cancer patient: management of gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with advanced cancer. Ann Oncol 2005; 15 Suppl 4:iv205-13. [PMID: 15477309 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdh928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- N I Cherny
- Pain Palliative Medicine Service, Department of Oncology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
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70
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Recent Literature. J Palliat Med 2004. [DOI: 10.1089/109662104773709486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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