Pain Medication at Home—Side Effects from Pain Medication

Constipation

Pain medications containing narcotics usually affect the digestive system. But there are ways of dealing with the side effects, and they shouldn't prevent you from using a drug which successfully relieves pain. Constipation is a common problem. Stool softeners, laxatives, or enemas may be needed daily for as long as you receive the narcotic. Bulk laxatives (such as Metamucil®) are one type to avoid when taking narcotics; they may cause severe constipation rather than relieve it. Treating constipation should be done with care, so you will not have more serious complications, such as stool impactions (a severe form of constipation).

Nausea

Another common side effect of pain medication is nausea. This too can be eased by anti-nausea medications, such as Dramamine®, Compazine®, Tigan®, and others. If you are having any unpleasant side effects from your medication, be sure to tell your doctor. But, never stop taking your medication without first checking with your doctor.

Read Pain Medication at Home-Top Do's and Dont's

Posted in How to Care for Someone at Home, How-to's for Hospice at Home, Injection How-to's, Managing Pain, Pain Management, Supportive Homecare