From the Research
Relationship Between Substance Abuse and Intestinal Obstruction
The relationship between substance abuse and intestinal obstruction is complex and has been studied in various research papers.
- Substance abuse, particularly opioid and alcohol abuse, can lead to intestinal obstruction and pseudo-obstruction 1, 2, 3.
- Opioid-induced bowel dysfunction can cause nausea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal distension, which can lead to intestinal obstruction 1.
- Alcohol abuse has been linked to chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIPO), a rare syndrome that mimics the signs and symptoms of intestinal obstruction without an anatomic lesion causing obstruction 2.
- Narcotic bowel syndrome, associated with prolonged use or abuse of narcotic analgesics, can cause chronic abdominal pain, vomiting, weight loss, and features of intestinal pseudo-obstruction 3.
Gastrointestinal Complications of Substance Abuse
Substance abuse can lead to various gastrointestinal complications, including:
- Gastrointestinal obstruction and perforation 4, 5
- Intestinal pseudo-obstruction 2, 3
- Gastric outlet obstruction and small bowel obstruction 1
- Abdominal pain and iron deficiency anemia 1
Drug-Induced Gastrointestinal Obstruction
Certain drugs, including prescription medications, can cause gastrointestinal obstruction and perforation 5.
- The Japanese Adverse Drug Event Report database identified 11,351 occurrences of drug-induced gastrointestinal obstruction and perforation between 2004 and 2020 5.
- The most common drugs associated with gastrointestinal obstruction and perforation were barium sulfate containing X-ray media, drugs for treatment of hyperkalemia and hyperphosphatemia, and oral bowel cleanser 5.