Koopmans-Klein, G., Wagemans, M.F., Wartenberg, H.C., Van Megen, Y.J., & Huygen, F.J. (2015). The efficacy of standard laxative use for the prevention and treatment of opioid induced constipation during oxycodone use: A small Dutch observational pilot study. Expert Review of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 10, 547–553.
To explore the effectiveness of standard laxative treatment in the prevention of oxycodone-induced constipation
From July 2013 to October 2013, standard laxative treatment consisting of polyethylene glycol (PEG) with electrolytes was started at the same time as opioid intake on day 1. Bisacodyl was prescribed, and patients took this as needed. Patients prescribed oxycodone at least 20 mg slow-release tables were started on the standard laxative treatment and followed for 28 days.
The dose of PEG and electrolytes varied between 0-3 sachets, and the bisacodyl dose varied from 5 mg-20 mg. Based on responder analysis criteria, 43% of patients (9 of 21) who were prescribed a standard laxative therapy regimen did not respond.
A standard laxative therapy regimen may not be effective in all patients given the type of opioid they may be prescribed and what their bowel function is at the start of opioid therapy.
Response to prophylactic PEG plus electrolytes is patients taking oxycodone SR is variable.