Why OIC Awareness Day Matters
Breaking the Stigma
OIC Awareness Day aims to break down the stigma and silence surrounding OIC. It provides a platform for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers to encourage open discussion of this often overlooked aspect of chronic pain management with opioid therapy.
Empowering Patients
When patients find it difficult to talk about OIC, they may suffer in silence, unaware that their discomfort is a common side effect of opioid treatment. By raising awareness and promoting open conversations, patients can be empowered to seek appropriate treatment.
Educating Healthcare providers
OIC Awareness Day educates healthcare providers about the importance of addressing OIC with their patients. By initiating these conversations, healthcare providers can better understand patients' needs and offer effective management strategies.
The Facts
- 37% of patients did not discuss their constipation-related symptoms with their healthcare providers.
- Of those patients who did not discuss OIC, 14% reported being concerned about having their pain medication changed.
- 60% of patients reported using at least 1 OTC laxative.
Treatment of OIC
There are approved medications available that can help manage OIC.
Although commonly used to help manage OIC, over-the-counter laxatives (e.g., Miralax®, Colace®, and Senokot®) are meant to treat occasional constipation
Prescription medicines that target the underlying cause of OIC are available
- Peripherally acting mu-opioid receptor antagonists (PAMORAs) are used to help manage OIC
If you think you may be suffering from OIC, it's important to know you're not alone. Talk to your healthcare provider to see if a prescription treatment option may be right for you.
Let's unite to make a difference in the lives of those affected by OIC.
Your participation can help create a world where patients can openly talk about their experiences without fear or discomfort.
