We all know that opioids are causing various GI side effects - constipation and sometimes other things.
Do you have any issues apart from constipation?
How do you people cope with this things?
Advice from an RN with 30 years' experience:
Constipation can be lessened by regular use of a stool softener, such as Bisacodyl.
Fiber supplements are better, however, because they are unlikely to cause rebound constipation when you stop using them, as happens with chemical products.
A largely unknown and unwelcome side-effect from opiate use is a temporary inability to urinate. This is a result of how opiates affect the parasympathetic nervous system.
Be careful with this one. If it's getting progressively harder to pee, it's time to dial back your usage, or you might end up in the ER begging for a urinary catheter.
Of course, the worst side-effect by far is withdrawal. If you get sick when you stop using and you need help to break free, find a doctor who will prescribe Buprenorphine (Subutex and other brand names), and you'll be free of opiates in a month without having to endure cold turkey.
One last note: To withdraw completely, take Buprenorphine on a decreasing dose, not forever, as with Methadone, or you'll just be trading one addiction for another.
Good luck, have fun, and stay safe
