Constipation Medications 

Getting Relief For Constipation

Constipation medications are available for getting relief for constipation in both over-the-counter and by prescription. While constipation is a fairly common - and generally temporary -condition, it's usually safe to get a medicine for constipation off the shelves of your neighborhood pharmacy or grocery store. But prolonged constipation can sometimes be a symptom of some other colon health issue, so it's never a bad idea to ask your doctor about constipation medications if the condition lasts for more than a day or two.

The consitpation medications and remedies described below will help bring relief for constipation in most cases.

Medications for constipation containing psyllium promote bowel movements by supplying a viscous liquid to the intestines. Psyllium also stimulates movement by the intestines.The best known brand names that include this medicine for constipation are Fiberall and Metamucil.

Medications containing an agent called methylcellulose may also be helpful. These work in a fashion similar to psyllium because they increase peristalsis (intestinal movement). They also add bulk to stool and promote regular bowel movements. The best-known over-the-counter constipation medicine containing methylcellulose is Citrucel.

Constipation medications containing magnesium hydroxide usually provide a reliable treatment for constipation relief in the short term. Magnesium hydroxide attracts fluids into the intestines, which makes bowel movements easier. Milk of Magnesia and Phillips Milk of Magnesia are among the better known products containing magnesium hydroxide.

There are a number of reliable stool softeners which provide relief for constipation. Stool softeners are designed to loosen blockages in the intestines. These are generally slow acting and make take a few days to work, but they provide great results if you can wait for them to "get going." Colace is a reliable daily stool softener and relief for constipation.

Laxative constipation medications are best used for times when getting relief for constipation has been difficult. Dulcolax and Senekot are among the more popular over-the-counter brand names.

In severe constipation cases, a sodium phosphate enema may be useful. These are also commonly known as Fleet Enemas. A Fleet Enema uses a saline laxative that works by pulling water from the body into the bowel. This softens stool and produces a quick (within minutes) bowel movement. Fleet Enemas are not appropriate to get relief for constipation if

• you have an allergy to any ingredient in a Fleet Enema (check the label or talk to your doctor)
• you have a bowel blockage or other serious bowel problems, congestive heart failure, kidney failure, or too much phosphate in the blood

If you have tried over-the-counter medicine for constipation without success, consult your doctor. He or she may be able to suggest constipation medications such as Enulose, Miralax or Zelnorm.

Constipation medications are not the only way to get relief for constipation. Diet is also a big factor. A diet that contains foods with a lot of insoluble fiber can not only help relieve constipation, but may also prevent it. Such foods include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Drinking plenty of fluids will also help keep stools soft and make it easier for them to move through your intestines and colon.

Individuals with chronic constipation due to anorectal dysfunction or other conditions or disorders of the colon may get some relief by using biofeedback. The goal is to retrain the muscles that influence bowel movements. Before attempting such medthods, you should definitely get the guidance of a physician.

In the United States alone, it's estimated that approximately 4 million individuals suffer frequent constipation. About 2.5 million physician visits are constipation-related.

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