Types of Medicine for Constipation

I believe everyone has experienced at least one episode of constipation in their lifetime.

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But do you know how many types of medicines are used for constipation?

1. Bulk-forming laxatives
Examples are isphagula or psyllium, methylcellulose and related compounds, polycarbophil and sterculia.
These medicines act by absorbing water many times of their own volume, then forming bulk of faeces to encourage bowel activity. They action are relatively slow, but less likely to interfere with normal bowel activity compared to others.

2. Osmotic laxatives
Examples are macrogol, magnesium-based preparations, sodium sulfate, sorbitol and polyethylene glycol.
However, they must be taken regularly to encourage bowel action.
Lactulose in long-term treatment of chronic constipation, might lead to stomach cramps and electrolyte imbalance.
Macrogol, on the other hand, is often used to evacuate the bowels after colonoscope or bowel surgery. It is not appropriate for long-term use as it may lead to chemical imbalance.

3. Stimulant laxatives
Examples are bisacodyl, senna and cascara.
These class of medicines has a relative rapid action and is usually reserved for those resistant to previous option. It is because these medicines act on nerve endings in intestines by triggering contraction of intestinal smooth muscle.
Similarly, long term use of medicines from this class may leads to abdominal symptoms.

4. Lubricants
Example is mineral oil to soften the faeces.
It is especially recommmended for elderly or those with terminal illnesses.

5. Emollient laxatives
Example is docusate.
It is frequently used as fecal softening agent.
This medicine stimulate intestinal action and promote penetration of fluid into faeces.

Excessive use of laxatives may cause body to flush out important electrolytes and vitamins, leading to deficiency of nutrients. It may also interfere with absorption of other medications and induce lazy bowel syndrome. Lazy bowel syndrome happen when bowel is unable to function properly as they have to depends on laxatives for movement.

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