Despite the obvious disadvantage of these drugs it is sometimes necessary to use them, even for longer times because no other option is available to treat the pain. The use of morphine or any other opioid should always be carried out in consultation with specialists in analgesia. Another way to relieve symptoms is to improve the gastrointestinal motor function in pseudo-obstruction. Other drugs with a potential for symptom relief in pseudo-obstruction are those that mimic the effects of some of the hormones that normally are produced by the stomach and the intestines. Drugs with a direct effect on muscle tone have a potential for relieving long-standing cramps in the gut.
More effective treatment is available for other symptoms in pseudo-obstruction.
Nausea and vomiting can be treated effectively with modern antiemetics. Heartburn and acid regurgitation that often trouble the patient with pseudo-obstruction usually respond well to acid reducing drugs like the new proton pump inhibitors. Constipation can be treated with stool softeners and bulking agents of the same kind as those given for functional constipation. Surgical treatment Many patients with pseudo-obstruction have been operated on more than once to rule out a mechanical obstruction. Surgery has a limited role for the alleviation of symptoms in pseudo-obstruction.