Constipation : note
• Constipation is associated with slow transit of faecal material through the large intestine and
increased fluid absorption, resulting in hard, dry faeces.
• Constipation is common in the elderly, in people with emotional problems or those with an inactive/sedentary lifestyle.
• The main causes
of constipation are: lack
of fiber and fluid in the diet, intestinal muscle weakness and neurogenic disorders.
• Some drugs also can cause constipation such
as:- opiates (as morphine and codeine), calcium channel blocking agents, antacids containing aluminium compounds and
iron salts used in the treatment of
anaemia.
• The main drug treatment for constipation is laxatives. Laxatives are four main types: bulk-forming preparations, hyperosmolar or saline solutions, faecal softeners/ wetting agents and stimulant or irritant laxatives.
• Adverse effects of laxative use or misuse include: flatulence, abdominal distension, cramps and
discomfort, weakness, diarrhoea, dehydration and electrolyte
imbalances.
- Prepared by: Dr. Mohamed Abdel Rahman (pharmacist).
- Resources: - Clinical physiology and pharmacology,Farideh Javid and Janice McCurrie 2008.
- Copyrights: All rights are reserved for pharmacist development group 2009 - 2011.
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Posted by Unknown
on 1/24/2011.
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