Don't Count on Stool Softeners to Help Opioid-Induced Constipation

June 2015

The approval of Movantik (mo-VAN-tick, naloxegol) will mean more options for treating opioid-induced constipation.

Consider initiating a bowel regimen when an opioid is started.

Start with an OTC osmotic laxative such as polyethylene glycol (Miralax, etc), and have the patient take it regularly. These are well tolerated...inexpensive...cause less cramping than stimulants...and are safe to use long-term for patients on chronic opioids.

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