Are you taking a strong painkiller
and feeling constipated?
Take this short questionnaire to record helpful information to discuss with your doctor.
This questionnaire takes less than 5 minutes to complete and is for people who are taking strong painkillers known as opioids, and think they may be experiencing constipation and constipation-related symptoms.
Are you taking a strong painkiller and feeling constipated?
Take this short questionnaire to record helpful information to discuss with your doctor. This questionnaire takes less than 5 minutes to complete and is for people who are taking strong painkillers known as opioids, and think they may be experiencing constipation and constipation-related symptoms.
This website is for people who are experiencing constipation and constipation-related symptoms, and are also taking strong painkillers known as opioids.
Opioids are a type of strong painkiller prescribed by a doctor for severe pain. Like all medicines, opioids can cause side effects. Opioids are a specific cause of constipation in about 8 out of 10 people who take them long-term for pain. This is called opioid induced constipation, which is often shortened to "OIC".
Opioids can also cause other side effects too. This website is about OIC and constipation-related symptoms, including the impact they can have on mental wellbeing and quality of life, but you should also let your doctor or nurse know if you think you are experiencing other side effects of opioids or any other medicines.
"Am I taking an opioid?"
Check to see if the painkiller you are taking is an opioid.
If your painkiller medicine is listed below then you are taking an opioid:
- Codeine (including Co-codamol)
- Tramadol
- Fentanyl
- Morphine
- Dihydrocodeine
- Methadone
- Oxycodone
The above are examples of opioids commonly prescribed for pain, but you may know them by a different name (the brand name).
If you're not sure if you are taking an opioid, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist, or read the leaflet that comes with your medicine.
"Might I be experiencing opioid induced constipation?"
Use this short questionnaire to provide helpful information to your doctor.
What is your current situation with opioids?
Your doctor or nurse is the best person to talk to about opioid induced constipation (OIC).
Just started taking opioids?
If your doctor has recently prescribed an opioid for you, find out here how opioids can sometimes affect the gut.
Start here
Opioids affecting your gut?
Find out more about how OIC starts here.
Start here
Getting back to your normal
Find out more about getting back to a normal bowel habit here.
Start here
Getting help
Find advice or support here.
Start here
