Combined oral prolonged-release oxycodone and naloxone in chronic painud management

摘要

Introduction: The use of opioids is associated with unwanted adverseudeffects, particularly opioid-induced constipation (OIC). The adverse effectsudof opioids on gastrointestinal function are mediated by the interactionudwith opioid receptors in the gastrointestinal tract. The most common drugsudused for relieving OIC are laxatives, which do not address the opioidudreceptor-mediated bowel dysfunction and do not provide sufficient relief.udAreas covered: This paper discusses the role of a combination of prolongedreleaseudformulation of oxycodone (OX) and naloxone (N) in the preventionudand management of OIC, reporting efficacy and safety outcome of controlledudstudies. In a therapeutic area of great unmet need, the combination tabletudof prolonged release of OX and N (PR OXN) could offer patients effectiveudanalgesia, while improving opioid-induced bowel dysfunction.udExpert opinion: PR OXN offers a unique and specific mechanism to controludOIC in patients receiving chronic opioid therapy. This combination has theudpotential advantage of preventing OIC, particularly in subgroups of population,udlike elderly or advanced cancer patients. This approach can decreaseudthe use of laxatives and additional medications, which represent a burdenudfor patients presenting comorbidities requiring multiple medications