Chemotherapy-Induced Constipation and Diarrhea: Pathophysiology, Current and Emerging Treatments

 Abbreviations

CIC, chemotherapy-induced constipation; 

CID, chemotherapy-induced diarrhea; 

ENS, enteric nervous system; 

GI, gastrointestinal.

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open access:
Frontiers | Chemotherapy-Induced Constipation and Diarrhea: Pathophysiology, Current and Emerging Treatments | Pharmacology of Anti-Cancer Drugs

 Conclusion

Chemotherapy-induced diarrhea and CIC are amongst the most common chemotherapy-induced GI toxicities, heavily contributing to treatment delays, dose reductions and in some cases cessation of anti-cancer treatment, greatly effecting management and clinical outcomes. Current treatments for CID and CIC are limited and come with a profuse amount of concomitant symptoms; however, novel therapies present a promising avenue of treatment for CID and CIC. Identification of potential targets and the development of novel treatments alleviating chemotherapy-induced toxicity are essential to improve clinical outcomes and quality of life amongst cancer sufferers.