Seven surreptitious drugs that lead to constipation problems
In a surprising turn, several common medications can inadvertently lead to constipation, a condition that affects more people than you might think. Here's a look at some of the unsuspecting medications that could be causing your digestive woes.
Chicory coffee and bananas are rich sources of inulin fiber, a beneficial component that supports the growth of good bacteria in the colon. However, an array of medications can have the opposite effect, slowing down the digestive process and leading to constipation.
The 7 Sneaky Medications
- Ozempic (semaglutide), a diabetes and obesity medication, is a common culprit. Constipation is a reported side effect, lasting around six weeks for some users [1].
- Ondansetron (Zofran), an anti-nausea medication often used after chemotherapy or surgery, has been linked to constipation in up to 10% of patients in clinical trials [3].
- Antihypertensives, drugs used to lower blood pressure, can slow colon nerve or muscle activity, leading to constipation [5].
- Anticholinergics, a class of medicines that block acetylcholine in the nervous system, can affect muscle contractions in the bowel, leading to constipation [5].
- Cholestyramine, a bile acid sequestrant used to lower cholesterol, can cause constipation by affecting fat metabolism and stool passage [5].
- Iron supplements, commonly given for anemia, are well known to cause constipation [5].
- Antacids containing mostly aluminum, used to neutralize stomach acid, can reduce bowel motility and cause constipation [5].
These medications slow colon motility or interfere with nerve/muscle function in the gut, leading to slow and difficult stool passage.
Lifestyle measures, such as increasing fiber and water intake, can help relieve medication-induced constipation [1][5]. It's essential to maintain adequate potassium intake and hydration for regular bowel movements.
The prevalence of chronic constipation is higher than you might think. Over 60 million Americans suffer from chronic constipation [2]. Chronic constipation can lead to more severe conditions such as leaky gut and colon cancer [4].
If you're experiencing constipation and are taking any of these medications, it's crucial to discuss this with your doctor. They may be able to suggest alternatives or adjust your dosage to alleviate your symptoms.
References:
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Ozempic (semaglutide). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ozempic-semaglutide/side-effects/drg-20474437
[2] National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (n.d.). Constipation. Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/constipation
[3] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2021). Zofran (ondansetron). Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/zofran-ondansetron-oral-solution-and-tablets-oral-soluble-film-tablets-oral-disintegrating-tablets
[4] National Cancer Institute. (2021). Colon Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/types/colon-rectal
[5] National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2021). Constipation. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003198.htm
- To combat constipation, consider incorporating chicory coffee and bananas, rich in inulin fiber, that promote good gut bacteria.
- Beyond common knowledge, numerous medications can induce constipation, among them Ozempic (semaglutide), an adaptation for diabetes and obesity.
- In addition to Ozempic, medications like Ondansetron (Zofran), used for nausea, can lead to constipation in up to 10% of patients.
- Antihypertensives, anticholinergics, Cholestyramine, iron supplements, and antacids containing aluminum are also noted for causing constipation due to their effects on colon motility and nerve/muscle function.
- Nutrition plays a vital role in managing constipation; maintaining adequate potassium intake and hydration is essential for regular bowel movements.
- Consider discussing constipation symptoms with a medical professional if you're taking any of these medications, as alternative treatments or dosage adjustments might be available.
