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Medication Errors Prevention

Dealing With Constipation? By William Fobi, Pharm.D
Constipation is a very common disorder that can be caused by diseases, drugs, pregnancy, lifestyle factors, and aging. The frequency of regular bowel movements may vary from one per day to three per week, depending on the person. Constipation is usually defined as a decrease in frequency of bowel movements, characterized by the difficult passage of hard, dry stool.
Most people suffer from constipation at one time or another. In the majority of cases, constipation lasts only a short time and is corrected easily through lifestyle modifications. A diet high in fiber (bran, cereals, fruit, juices, vegetables and pasta), getting plenty of exercise, such as walking 20 minutes daily, and drinking plenty of fluids (4 to 6 glasses of water a day) will help prevent constipation. Do not eat large amounts of processed cheese or sweets. Avoid caffeine or alcohol because these products can be constipating.
However, if lifestyle modification doesn't help regulate or relieve bowel movement, turning to over-the-counter pharmacologic agents may be best.
There are many OTC agents, but the choice of laxative will depend on the patient's medical condition and how long he/she has been constipated. The medications/laxatives used to treat constipation include: Bulk forming (psyllium, methylcellulose, vegetable powders); stool softeners (docusate sodium and calcium); Saline (Milk of magnesia, citrate of magnesia); and Stimulants (Bisacodyl, cascara sagrada). Generally, the first choice is a bulk- forming laxative or stool softener, because they have the gentlest effect and usually do not have any side effects. The stimulant laxatives and mineral oil (which should never be used without a physician's order) can cause stomach upset or interact with your medications.
In certain circumstances, constipation can be a symptom of a much more serious problem. Patients should contact their physician immediately if they experience any of the following conditions: sudden constipation with abdominal cramps and an inability to pass gas or stool, sharp or severe abdominal pain, blood in stool, constipation alternating with diarrhea, thin, pencil-like stools, rectal pain, and unexplained weight loss.

If you have any questions about constipation or laxatives, call Fobi Comprehensive Pharmacy:
1-866-376-FOBI (3624)-You deserve to know!