AstraZeneca and Daiichi Sankyo have partnered with six-time Olympic medalist Jackie Joyner-Kersee to increase awareness of opioid-induced constipation (OIC).
Joyner-Kersee speaks candidly about her struggle with OIC after taking opioid medication prescribed by her healthcare provider to help manage pain stemming from years of training to compete in the long jump and heptathlon. She earned her three gold, one silver, and two bronze Olympic medals at four different Olympic Games.
“While the opioids helped manage the pain, I noticed I became constipated frequently – but I tried to ignore it,” said Joyner-Kersee. “However, it was taking such an emotional and physical toll that I finally had to work up the nerve to talk to my healthcare provider, and it wasn’t until then that I learned I had opioid-induced constipation or OIC. After coming to this realization, I felt it important to work to raise awareness about OIC alongside AstraZeneca and Daiichi Sankyo. We encourage those who may be impacted by OIC to talk to their healthcare provider and visit www.ohisee.com, a community that helps OIC sufferers and their caregivers better understand and manage this uncomfortable condition.”
OIC is one of the most commonly reported side effects of opioid therapy and can last for the length of treatment. About 40 percent of patients in clinical trials taking opioids developed this side effect.
Source: AstraZeneca
