Treatment with strong opioids is connected with frequent and problematic side effects. One of the most common side effects is opioid-induced constipation (OIC). The discomfort of OIC can limit the effectiveness of pain therapy. Because constipation typically persists for as long as opioid therapy is administered, its effects on the quality of life (QoL) of patients need to be taken seriously. Data and published studies on the cost implications of OIC are, however, scarce.

The study is based on patient data from a Swedish noninterventional study, UPPSIKT.

Journal of Pain and Symptom Management, 2010; 40(5): 696-703

DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2010.02.019