Why You Might Need a Specific Doctor for Symproic

Symproic (Naldemedine) is a prescription medication used to treat opioid-induced constipation (OIC) in adults with chronic non-cancer pain. Unlike over-the-counter laxatives, Symproic works by blocking opioid receptors in your gut — without affecting your pain relief. But because it's a specialized medication, not every doctor is familiar with it or comfortable prescribing it.

If your current doctor hasn't heard of Symproic, or if you're looking for a provider who regularly treats OIC, this guide will help you find the right one near you.

What Type of Doctor Prescribes Symproic?

Several types of doctors can prescribe Symproic. The most common specialties include:

• Pain management specialists — These doctors work with opioid patients daily and are most familiar with OIC treatments like Symproic.
• Gastroenterologists — GI doctors treat all kinds of constipation and may recommend Symproic when standard laxatives haven't worked.
• Primary care physicians — Your regular doctor can prescribe Symproic, especially if they're the one managing your opioid therapy.
• Internal medicine doctors — Internists handle complex medication regimens and are often comfortable prescribing PAMORAs like Symproic.
• Palliative care specialists — These providers focus on symptom relief and quality of life, making them a great fit for OIC treatment.

In most cases, the doctor who prescribes your opioid medication is the best person to also prescribe Symproic. They already know your medical history and pain management plan.

How to Search for a Symproic Prescriber Near You

Here are some practical steps to find a doctor who can prescribe Symproic:

1. Start with Your Current Doctor

If you're already on opioid therapy, ask your prescribing doctor about Symproic. Many doctors are willing to prescribe it once they understand your constipation isn't responding to standard treatments. Bring up these points:

• How long you've had opioid-induced constipation
• What laxatives or stool softeners you've already tried
• How OIC affects your daily life

2. Use Your Insurance Provider Directory

Log into your insurance company's website and search for pain management or gastroenterology specialists in your area. This ensures the doctor you visit is in-network, which can significantly reduce your costs.

3. Search Online Doctor Directories

Websites like Zocdoc, Healthgrades, and Vitals let you search for doctors by specialty and location. Try searching for "pain management" or "gastroenterologist" near your zip code.

4. Ask Your Pharmacist

Pharmacists often know which local doctors prescribe specialty medications like Symproic. They may be able to point you in the right direction.

5. Try Telehealth

Symproic can be prescribed through telehealth visits. This is especially helpful if you live in a rural area or have limited mobility. Many telehealth platforms connect you with pain management or internal medicine doctors who can evaluate you for OIC treatment from home.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

When you visit a doctor to discuss Symproic, here's what to prepare for:

• Medical history review — The doctor will want to know about your opioid use, current pain levels, and constipation history.
• Laxative trial discussion — Many insurance plans require you to have tried a regular laxative before they'll approve Symproic. Be ready to list what you've already tried.
• GI health screening — Your doctor will check for conditions like bowel obstruction, diverticulitis, or GI cancers that could make Symproic risky.
• Prescription and next steps — If Symproic is right for you, you'll get a prescription for the standard dose: one 0.2 mg tablet once daily.

For more details about the medication itself, read our guide on What Is Symproic? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know.

What If Your Doctor Says No?

Some doctors may not be familiar with Symproic or may prefer other treatments first. If this happens:

• Ask for a referral — Request a referral to a pain management specialist or gastroenterologist who has more experience with PAMORAs.
• Bring information — Print out the prescribing information from symproic.com to share with your doctor.
• Get a second opinion — You have every right to seek another provider's input on your treatment plan.

Dealing with Insurance and Prior Authorization

Even after you find a doctor willing to prescribe Symproic, your insurance company may require prior authorization before they'll cover it. This means your doctor needs to submit paperwork proving the medication is medically necessary.

Common requirements for prior authorization include:

• Documentation that you're on opioid therapy
• Proof that you've tried and failed at least one laxative (step therapy)
• A confirmed diagnosis of opioid-induced constipation

The prior authorization process can take a few days to a couple of weeks. Ask your doctor's office to start it right away so there's no delay.

Worried about the cost? Symproic can run $484 to $746 for a 30-day supply without insurance. Check out our article on How to Save Money on Symproic for savings tips, including the manufacturer's copay card that can bring your cost down to $0.

Can You Get Symproic Through Telehealth?

Yes. Telehealth is a convenient option for getting a Symproic prescription, especially if:

• There are no pain management specialists nearby
• You have trouble getting to in-person appointments
• You want a faster appointment (many telehealth platforms offer same-day or next-day visits)

During a telehealth visit, the doctor will review your medical records, discuss your symptoms, and can send a prescription to your preferred pharmacy electronically. Just make sure the telehealth service is licensed in your state.

Finding a Pharmacy That Has Symproic in Stock

Once you have your prescription, you'll need to find a pharmacy that carries Symproic. Because it's a brand-name specialty medication with no generic available, not every pharmacy keeps it on the shelf.

Use MedFinder to check pharmacy availability near you, or read our guide on How to Check If a Pharmacy Has Symproic in Stock for more tips.

Key Takeaways

• Pain management doctors, gastroenterologists, and primary care physicians can all prescribe Symproic.
• Start by asking your current opioid prescriber about Symproic for OIC.
• Telehealth is a valid and convenient way to get a Symproic prescription.
• Be prepared for prior authorization — have your laxative trial history ready.
• Use MedFinder to locate a pharmacy that has Symproic in stock near you.