A member asked:

I had a discectomy about a week ago and i am taking oxycodone (amongst several other pain killers) anyway i am unable to open my bowels despite taking several laxatives every day, the pain in my abdomen is so bad im at my wits end?

7 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
Dr. Charles Davant answered

Specializes in Family Medicine

?Oil enema: You probably have a fecal impaction and may need a trip to the er to have it broken up. You could try a couple of fleet's oil retention enemas to see it that helps, then stool softeners/laxatives while you are taking the constipating pain meds.

Answered 7/5/2013

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Dr. Orrin Ailloni-Charas answered

Specializes in Anesthesiology

First, let your: Doctor know. Try to wean off of the narcotics, add a stool softener, and consider an enema.

Answered 9/28/2016

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Suppository/Enema: I agree - i think a suppository such as Dulcolax or enemas such as fleets would be best at this point. Adding a stool softener such as docusate or fiber (benefiber/fiber choice, etc.) will help in the longer term, but for more immediate relief, and having tried oral laxatives already, something from below is necessary.

Answered 5/10/2017

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