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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2012; 25(01): 012-019
DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1301754
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Medical Management of Constipation

Meredith Portalatin
1   Department of Gastroenterology, Ochsner Clinic Foundation, New Orleans, Louisiana.
,
Nathaniel Winstead
1   Department of Gastroenterology, Ochsner Clinic Foundation, New Orleans, Louisiana.
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
23 March 2012 (online)

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Abstract

Constipation is a common clinical problem. Initial management of chronic constipation should include lifestyle maneuvers, and increased fiber and fluids. Polyethylene glycol, sodium picosulfate, bisacodyl, prucalopride, lubiprostone, and linaclotide were all more effective than placebo for treating chronic idiopathic constipation. Many commonly used agents lack quality evidence supporting their use.

Keywords

constipation - laxatives - fiber - osmotic agents - polyethylene glycol - 5-ht4 agonists
 

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