Fiber-Enriched Enteral Nutrition and Opioid-Induced Constipation in the ICU

Opioid use for sedation and analgesia is widespread among mechanically ventilated ICU patients, often leading to gastrointestinal dysfunction and opioid-induced constipation (OIC). While enteral nutrition (EN) is routinely used in critical care, the role of fiber-enriched EN formulas in preventing OIC remains unclear. This prospective quasi-randomized study aims to evaluate whether fiber-containing EN products reduce the incidence and severity of OIC compared to fiber-free formulations in intubated ICU patients. The findings may contribute to optimizing nutritional strategies to mitigate constipation-related complications in this high-risk population.