Antiepileptic drug regimens, especially those involving valproate, are associated with major congenital abnormalities in the offspring of women with epilepsy. Samren EB, van Duijn CM, Christaens GC, et al. Antiepileptic drug regimens and major congenital abnormalities in the offspring. Naloxone for opioid-induced constipation Constipation is one of the most frequently reported side effects of opioids in patients with chronic pain. Laxatives are often prescribed, but for some patients, constipation can be severe enough to limit opioid use or dose.
Naloxone is a competitive antagonist of opioid receptors located peripherally and centrally.
When administered orally, it undergoes first-pass hepatic metabolism resulting in a low systemic bioavailability. Naloxone was then continued, with dosage adjustments made depending on laxation and the occurrence of opioid withdrawal symptoms. After the four-day titration period, patients were monitored for another six days. Patients self-monitored their laxative use and pain scores on a daily basis. The study was completed by 17 of the 22 patients.