2020 Volume 27 Issue 1 Pages 27-31
Opioid induced constipation (OIC) is a prevalent issue among chronic noncancer patients because of the more prolonged use of opioids compared to that among cancer patients. We conducted a retrospective observational study to evaluate the efficacy and side effects of naldemedine. Thirty-three cases (92％) showed increased bowel movement and 26 showed (72％) reduced use of other laxatives. The adverse events included diarrhea (17％) and loose stools (8％). No severe adverse events were observed. The cost incurred due to OIC before prescription of naldemedine was 1,148 yen/month, but with naldemedine, the cost increased to 6,102 yen/month. Although naldemedine is expensive, it has few adverse effects. In addition, it reduces the use of other laxatives that can cause hypermagnesemia, kidney disfunction, and hypokalemia. Naldemedine is effective and safe for OIC treatment in patients with chronic noncancer pain. It is also an effective alternative to laxatives with adverse reactions.
