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Drugs Used to Treat Chronic Idiopathic Constipation

Chronic idiopathic constipation is a type of constipation which isn't caused by dietary and other lifestyle deficiencies. People with chronic idiopathic constipation often rely on one or more types of medication for treatment. Here are six common medicines that are used to treat this condition.

  1. Fiber

    • Some people with chronic idiopathic constipation have found relief from their frequent constipation by using fiber therapies as a dietary supplement. Fiber is available over-the-counter in pill form, wafers and in the form of fiber powder.

    Stool Softeners

    • Constipation is caused by hardening feces, also known as stools, in the rectum and in the colon. Stool softeners may not completely stop constipation from happening, but will help to soften the stools so that they are easy to pass without excessive straining.

    Stimulant Laxatives

    • Stimulant laxatives, such as bisacodyl and senna, work overnight or in minutes when taken in suppository form to stimulate the bowel wall to relieve chronic constipation. Stimulant laxatives are available over-the-counter. These types of laxatives can be habit-forming and should be alternated with other methods for treating chronic idiopathic constipation.

    Enemas

    • Many people use only enemas to treat chronic idiopathic constipation. For these types of people, there are usually two extremes: being able to have a bowel movement really easily, or being extremely, frequently and severely constipated. Enemas and enema related equipment are readily available over the counter at many department stores, supermarkets and pharmacies.

    Suppositories for Chronic Idiopathic Constipation

    • Suppositories are inserted into the rectum and melted by the body's temperature. Laxative suppositories are usually made of glycerin or bisacodyl. Glycerin suppositories are more of a lubricant laxative than bisacodyl, which is a stimulant laxative.

    Milk of Magnesia

    • Milk of magnesia is one of the less pleasant remedies for chronic idiopathic constipation. Although many people don't like its taste, milk of magnesia works within a few hours to relieve cramping, bloating, and to produce a bowel movement. Milk of magnesia is available over-the-counter at many drug stores.

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