Wirz S, Klaschik E
Klinik und Poliklinik für Anästhesiologie und spezielle Intensivmedizin, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn.
Schmerz. 2003 Aug;17(4):233-9. doi: 10.1007/s00482-003-0224-z.
Goal of this study was the assessment of the frequency of constipation in patients of palliative care medicine and the efficacy of the use of laxatives.
In a retrospective study the computerized data of 206 patients were analysed by descriptive statistics.
Constipation occurred in 42.7% of patients. Constipation appeared in 34% of 159 patients, who were treated with morphine. There was no correlation to gastrointestinal tumors. Laxatives were given to 74.3% of patients. Laxative use was uncomplicated in 78.4%. For therapy of constipation combined administration of polyethylene glycol, sodium picosulphate and paraffin was most effective.
In palliative care patients the use of polyethylene glycol is recommended for treating morphine-related-constipation.
