Hydrocodone/APAP and Constipation

For people taking hydrocodone/APAP, constipation is a likely -- and expected -- side effect. Your healthcare provider may recommend that you take a laxative or stool softener while taking the drug to prevent this problem from occurring. Unfortunately, the body does not get used to the effects of the drug that cause constipation, so as long as you are taking hydrocodone/APAP, constipation is likely to occur.

 

Hydrocodone/APAP and Constipation: An Overview

Hydrocodone/APAP (hydrocodone and acetaminophen) is a prescription pain medication. It contains acetaminophen (also known as Tylenol® and often abbreviated as "APAP") and hydrocodone, an opiate narcotic. The narcotic component of hydrocodone/APAP frequently causes constipation. The majority of people who take the drug will develop some degree of constipation, although you may avoid this side effect if you take hydrocodone/APAP for just a few days or if you only take it occasionally.
 

Will Constipation With Hydrocodone/APAP Go Away?

Constipation due to hydrocodone/APAP will not go away on its own, as long as you continue to take the medication. Someone who has been taking the medication for years is just as likely to have constipation due to the drug as someone who just started taking it. The body never adjusts or adapts to the effects of hydrocodone/APAP that cause constipation. Therefore, measures to treat and prevent constipation due to hydrocodone/APAP are usually necessary.
 

Treating and Preventing Constipation From Hydrocodone/APAP

Although non-drug treatments for constipation, such as exercise and increased fiber and water intake, may help a little, most healthcare providers agree that a laxative is necessary to prevent and treat constipation due to hydrocodone/APAP. Stool softeners, such as docusate (Colace® and others), may provide some relief; however, stimulant laxatives are often necessary. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist to recommend a laxative that is best for your situation (don't forget to mention that you are taking hydrocodone/APAP).
 
The use of laxatives to prevent and treat constipation due to hydrocodone/APAP is extremely important in some situations, such as after a heart attack or after delivering a baby. In these situations, constipation can be extremely painful (after having a baby) and even life-threatening (after having a heart attack -- when straining should be avoided).
 
(Hydrocodone/APAP and Constipation Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;