Morphine Levels Associated with Constipation in Home Palliative Cancer Patients
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Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background: Constipation significantly impacts the quality of life in cancer patients. Understanding the factors associated with constipation enables caregivers to manage the condition effectively and improve the appropriateness of care. This study aims to investigate the association between morphine dosage and constipation in end-of-life cancer patients receiving home-based care.
Design: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Materials and Methods: The study population consisted of cancer patients receiving palliative home care from Hatyai Hospital between January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2024. Data were collected by reviewing the medical records of 111 subjects.
Results: The study found a significant association between morphine dosage and the incidence of constipation in end-of-life cancer patients receiving home care. Higher morphine doses were associated with a greater likelihood of constipation. The adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for the Oral Morphine Equivalent Dose (OMED) in relation to constipation was 1.04 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01–1.07). This indicates that the odds of constipation increases by approximately 4% for every 1 mg/day increase in morphine dosage after adjusting for covariates. Furthermore, the probability of developing constipation exceeds 95 percent when the oral morphine equivalent dose is greater than or equal to 70 mg/day.
Conclusion: The use of morphine in end-of-life cancer patients receiving home-based care leads to an increased prevalence of constipation as the dosage increases.
Keywords: morphine dosage, constipation, end-of-life care, palliative care
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