May 25, 2012
Topics A-Z Constipation Chronic Constipation After Six years Methadone Maintenance Therapy
Chronic Constipation After Six years Methadone Maintenance Therapy |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: I was on 90mg of methadone a day for 6 years through a local methadone maintenance clinic for opioid addiction. I always had problems with constipation on methadone of course, but I've been detoxed off of it for almost a year now and still suffer from very severe constipation. I try not to use laxatives but I end up having to eventually because I literally will not have a bowel movement for weeks if I do not. I've talked to doctors about this and they say it's ileus, prescribe a laxative or a laxative suppository, tell me to eat more fiber, drink more water, exercise more, and send me on my way. None take it seriously but to me it's very distressing and can get VERY uncomfortable. Also will often times have mucus mixed into my BM sometimes when I actually do have one. Is there any treatment for this? As laxatives go the only thing I haven't tried is Zelnorm, which I hear is tightly controlled because of a link to increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. What do I say to my doctor to get him to realize this is serious? Dear Clint: I do understand your concern of constipation after the use of methadon. During prolonged administration, other side-effects may decrease over several weeks; however, constipation and sweating may persist. Unfortunately there may not be other alternatives to treating chronic constipation from methadon use other than the ones that your doctor has already prescribed. I would definitely advise you to continue the same life-style regimen prescribed and refrain from taking any bulk producing laxatives like psyllium and methylcellusose. You will have to consult your doctor to further evaluate you (maybe even do a colonoscopy) since your constipation could be caused by a medical condition. Zelnorm (Tegaserod) was previously used for the management of constipation and irritable bowel syndrome, and has now been subsequently removed from the market due to concerns over possible increased risk of heart attacks and stroke. I would not advise you to use this drug. I hope the information helps. |
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| Last Updated ( Wednesday, 04 January 2012 ) |
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