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Opioids, potent pain relievers for patients with cancer, frequently cause constipation, which is a significant issue. Researchers at University of Tsukuba revealed that administering naldemedine, which is a constipation medication, alongside opioids effectively prevents opioid-induced constipation, thereby improving the patient's quality of life.

Tsukuba, Japan—Pain relief for patients with cancer is crucial, and opioids, such as morphine, play a vital role. However, constipation, which negatively affects the patient's quality of life, is a common side effect of opioid administration. This condition, also known as opioid-induced constipation, is prevalent and frequently does not resolve on its own, thereby necessitating effective interventions.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of naldemedine, a medication used to treat constipation, in preventing constipation when patients with cancer begin receiving opioids. Naldemedine is anticipated to prevent constipation by promoting regular bowel movements.

The study involved 99 patients with cancer, categorized into two groups: one receiving naldemedine and the other a placebo. After 14 days of treatment, 64.6% of the patients taking naldemedine showed no signs of constipation compared with 17.0% in the placebo group. Furthermore, the naldemedine group demonstrated improved quality of life and reduced nausea.

In conclusion, the study indicates that naldemedine, when administered in conjunction with opioids for pain relief in patients with cancer, contributes to a more comfortable life by preventing constipation.

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This study was funded by the Grant for Research Advancement on Palliative Medicine, Japanese Society for Palliative Medicine (No.192).

Original Paper

Title of original paper:

Naldemedine for opioid-induced constipation in patients with cancer: A multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial

Journal:

Journal of Clinical Oncology

DOI:

10.1200/JCO.24.00381

Correspondence

Assistant Professor HAMANO Jun
Institute of Medicine, University of Tsukuba

Clinical Associate Professor KAJIURA Shinya
Department of Clinical Oncology, University of Toyama

Related Link

Institute of Medicine