Initial management of chronic constipation should include lifestyle maneuvers, and increased fiber and fluids.
Bulk-forming laxatives are the first-line treatment for most patients with constipation. Bulk-forming laxatives are gentle, safe, and effective. They increase the size and water content of the stools, and the extra bulk stimulates a bowel movement.
First-line therapy should include bowel retraining, increased dietary fiber and fluid intake, and exercise when possible. Laxatives, stool softeners and nonabsorbable solutions may be needed in some patients with chronic constipation.
Expensive prescription drugs are rarely the answer. Simple over-the-counter options like Miralax, Ex-Lax, or Ducolax usually do the trick.
It is a laxative for the treatment of constipation in adults, adolescents and elderly. It is not recommended for children below 12 years of age. Movicol helps you to have a comfortable bowel movement even if you have been constipated for a long time. Movicol also works in very bad constipation called faecal impaction.
If laxatives don't work, ask for help. You should see your doctor and discuss it if you are constantly needing to take laxatives.
Osmotic laxatives such as polyethylene glycol (brand name Miralax) are well-tolerated by most older adults, and can be used daily.
Pick a regular time to sit on the toilet, such as after a meal or warm bath. You may need to sit 2 or 3 times a day. Be patient. It may take 15 to 45 minutes to have a bowel movement.
Don't get into the habit of taking laxatives every day to ease your constipation because this can be harmful. In some cases, you may be prescribed a laxative to use regularly, but this should always be supervised by your GP or a gastroenterologist (a specialist in digestive conditions).
HOW LONG WILL MOVICOL® TAKE TO WORK? Don't be concerned if MOVICOL® does not work immediately. MOVICOL® usually takes 1 to 2 days to trigger the first bowel movement.
Are there any issues with long term use of MOVICOL? MOVICOL has been shown to be generally well tolerated in studies of up to 2 years duration. MOVICOL works in harmony by using water and the body's own processes to facilitate regular bowel movement. MOVICOL is not a stimulant, and is not associated with 'lazy' bowel.
Metamucil® (Psyllium) treats constipation. It's a bulk-forming fiber laxative. In addition to taking this medication, increasing fiber in your diet may also help lower cholesterol and promote heart health.
Laxatives work in different ways, and the effectiveness of each laxative type varies from person to person. In general, bulk-forming laxatives, also referred to as fiber supplements, are the gentlest on your body and safest to use long term. Metamucil and Citrucel fall into this category.
Relief within minutes
The fastest way to get constipation relief is to use OTC laxatives that are administered rectally. These include saline and mineral oil enemas as well as glycerin and bisacodyl rectal suppositories.
The most common causes of a loose poop are things like viruses, food allergies and medication side effects. Some chronic conditions can, too: Crohn's disease. Ulcerative colitis.
Eating a lot of high-fat meats, dairy products and eggs, sweets, or processed foods may cause constipation. Not enough fluids.
But you may not have to give up dairy -- just eat less of it and change your choices. Try yogurt with probiotics, live bacteria that's good for your digestive system. It may help relieve constipation.
Do not take Movicol if your doctor has told you that you have: an obstruction in your intestine (gut) a perforated gut wall. severe inflammatory bowel disease, like ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, or toxic megacolon.
Like all medicines, Movicol Lemon- Lime can have side effects. Sometimes people have indigestion, stomach ache or rumbles. You may also feel bloated, suffer from wind, feel sick or vomit, may also experience soreness of the anus (bottom) and may have mild diarrhoea when starting to take Movicol Lemon-Lime.
You can take MOVICOL® at any time of day that is convenient.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking if you have had a sudden change in bowel habits in the past two weeks or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not give Metamucil to children younger than six years unless on a doctor's advice. Keep your Metamucil in a cool, dry, place, away from moisture and heat.