Opana cause constipation

Is Opana cause constipation?

I take Opana for pain, and I am always constipated. Is there anything I can do about this? Is the medication causing this?Opana (oxymorphone) is in a class of medications called opioid or narcotic analgesics. Opana is used to treat acute moderate to severe pain. Opana works by altering the way in which the body senses pain. The most common side effects with Opana are: constipation, nausea, fever, sleepiness, vomiting, itching, headache, dizziness, and confusion. Opana has the potential to cause severe constipation, according to its prescribing information. People who take Opana along with anticholinergic medications or other medications with anticholinergic activity may have an increased risk of severe constipation, which may lead to paralytic ileus (intestinal obstruction due to paralysis of the intestinal muscles). Laxatives and/or stool softeners or other approaches should be considered with the start of Opana therapy, according to prescribing information. Drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water each day; eating 2 to 4 servings of fresh fruit and 3 to 5 servings of vegetables; and getting regular exercise are strategies that are often recommended to treat and prevent constipation, including constipation due to the use of opioids. However, the most appropriate management of constipation associated with opioid use often depends on many patient-specific characteristics. For more specific information, consult with your doctor or pharmacist for guidance based on your health status and current medications, particularly before taking any action. Derek Dore, PharmD