Are there medications for constipation?
I take over-the-counter medications for constipation, but nothing seems to help. Are there medications that my primary care physician can prescribe?Chronic constipation can often be alleviated by drinking at least 64 ounces of natural water, limiting caffeine intake (caffeine dehydrates), routine exercise, and adding natural fiber into your diet via fruits, vegetables (especially greens), wheat bran and whole grains. Some prescription medications can also cause constipation. Please contact your health care provider or you may submit another question to the Everyday Health "Ask a Pharmacist" at askapharmacist@everydayhealth.com and submit your current drug therapy information to be reviewed for constipation as a side effect. There are many over-the-counter products currently available to relieve constipation but for occasional use only. Long term use of these products can have negative consequences. Miralax, a product previously available only by prescription, works by allowing stools to retain water within them, thereby decreasing the incidence of hard stools. Miralax has the least amount of side effects and drug interactions and under medical supervision can be used on a daily basis. Two prescription drugs commonly used for constipation are Amitiza and Lactulose. However, both products may cause gas, nausea, abdominal pain, abdominal discomfort, stomach cramps, and diarrhea among other side effects. Please contact your health care provider for a complete evaluation. You may also find helpful information about medications for constipation at constipation clinic
