Dealing with opioid induced constipation?

Ah - you can have another drug to deal with a drug-induced problem ...
or you can consider Natural Solutions

by Marilyn Sidwell with oversight by John W Jones, MD

    Ultra 4x6 Probiotic
    Ginger
    Opti-MSM Lotion Plus
    fiber for bulk
    water for hydration

Opioid-induced - or constipation from any cause - is the kind of GUT problem that is often considered 'normal', and as a result it is not usually discussed with the doctor.

Yet constipation will usually produce a myriad of symptoms and problems that are difficult for patients to deal with.

Constipation most often is a big problem for older patients and it is made much worse by the use of opioid drugs. But the problem is not limited to any particular age group.  For instance, opioid-induced constipation may result from post-surgery and/or post-injury medications.   If these meds include antibiotics there is a need to introduce helpful and beneficial probiotic organisms.

Regardless of the cause, the result is that the entire digestive system slows down.  Slow stomach-emptying often produces GERDS.  When the lower GI tract slows there is often bloating (abdominal distention) and cramping.  Peristalsis, the movement of food along the GI tract, slows or stops.

Ginger, one or two with meals, promotes peristaltic motion, which helps propel food thru the GI tract.   In addition, Magnesium Oxide, a natural mild laxative, can help while delivering Magnesium, often deficient in our diets. 

Make sure the diet contains fiber-rich foods, fiber and bulking supplements, and drink 8 oz or more glasses of warm water daily. In some cases a 15 minute walk to stimulate the bowel is very helpful.

One interesting solution we found for stomach cramping and straining is to gently massage the stomach and abdominal area.  Before getting out of bed in the morning or after a relaxing bath use Opti-MSM Lotion Plus in a clockwise direction.  MSM is a pain-relieving delivery system for the calming and soothing essential oils our lotion contains. 

Read more: good information from a Naturopath:

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.