Medical Management of constipation

Question 1

What two things do you do before offering medication?

Answer 1

1. Lifestyle advice eg no coffee/tea. Increase fibre
2. Withdraw any medications that may be causing the symptoms

Question 2

What is the bulk forming laxative?

Answer 2

1. Bulk forming laxative (fibogel)
2. In increases fluid in stool to promote peristalsis

Question 3

What is the osmotic laxative?

Answer 3

Osmotic laxative (lactulose)

Increases fluid in lumen to promote peristalsis

Question 4

What is the laxative that stimulates peristalsis?

Answer 4

Stimulant laxatives (Senna)

Stimulates nerves and peristalsis

Question 5

What is the surface wetting laxative?

Answer 5

Surface wetting agents (docusate)

Allows it to get wetter and stimulates peristalsis

Question 6

What psychological treatment can be offered?

Answer 6

CBT

Question 7

What pain management can be offered?

Answer 7

Antimuscarinics

Anticholinergics - Can increase constipation

Peppermint pil

Question 8

What motility drugs can you use?

Answer 8

Seretonin receptor agonists