Medicinal Constipation

What is or have you heard of:  DOC-Q-LACE?  It's supposed to help with constipation issues when you are taking a combination of meds.  Is this true and if so, do you need a prescription to get this or is this an over-the-counter medicine?

[Tuckamore]

Hi Kabomboom,

Welcome to the Senior Health Forum. I am glad that you found us and took the time to post. I too assume you are referring to Dulcolax which is a brand name. It's generic name is  Bisacodyl. It comes in many forms including, tablets to take by mouth and a suppository to insert rectally and an enema form. The generic form is obviously less expensive.  

As said wisely by Patricia there are many laxatives and many types of laxatives. Bisacodyl (Dulcolax) is a stimulant laxative. These are used to stimulate the movement (Peristalsis) of the intestines. Laxatives come in many forms and include bulk-forming laxatives, lubricants, stool softeners, saline laxatives, stimulant laxatives and combination medicines. Knowing which is right for you is important.

Ppl who take harsh stimulant laxatives daily can be become dependant upon them. Harsh stimulate laxatives should be used only occasionally or as directed by your physician.  Bisacodyl is often prescribed by physicians. Considered "safer" are natural remedies or bulk-forming laxatives. Drinking plenty of water and getting adequate exercise is important in proper bowel function.

Yes opiate medications are known to cause constipation as aptly mentioned by caregiver however there are other medications that can also produce constipation issues. It's important that you are on a daily regime to aid in evacuation and not wait until there is a major problem. I urge to to discuss this with your PCP. Together you should be able to work out a daily routine that will avoid serious constipation issues.

A glass of prune juice a day (if not contraindicated) can do wonders....add some  fresh fruits and vegetables and you may not require routine laxatives. But again discuss this with your PCP.

Best of luck to you. Please keep in touch. We're happy to have your input and questions.

Peace,
~Tuck

[Patricia169]

Dulcolax is sold over the counter as are several other laxatives.

[caregiver222]

The most common cause of constipation is the use of opiates, which stop peristalsis. In such a case the opiate must be discontinued or naltrexane administered to restart the peristaltic action.  Such constipation can result in a blockage that requres a colostomy, so it should be immediately brought to the attention of the treating physician before attempting self-treatment. Your question cannot be properly answered without knowing the exact medications.

[Tuckamore]

Hi Kabomboom,

Welcome to the Senior Health Forum. I am glad that you found us and took the time to post. I too assume you are referring to Dulcolax which is a brand name. It's generic name is  Bisacodyl. It comes in many forms including, tablets to take by mouth and a suppository to insert rectally and an enema form. The generic form is obviously less expensive.  

As said wisely by Patricia there are many laxatives and many types of laxatives. Bisacodyl (Dulcolax) is a stimulant laxative. These are used to stimulate the movement (Peristalsis) of the intestines. Laxatives come in many forms and include bulk-forming laxatives, lubricants, stool softeners, saline laxatives, stimulant laxatives and combination medicines. Knowing which is right for you is important.

Ppl who take harsh stimulant laxatives daily can be become dependant upon them. Harsh stimulate laxatives should be used only occasionally or as directed by your physician.  Bisacodyl is often prescribed by physicians. Considered "safer" are natural remedies or bulk-forming laxatives. Drinking plenty of water and getting adequate exercise is important in proper bowel function.

Yes opiate medications are known to cause constipation as aptly mentioned by caregiver however there are other medications that can also produce constipation issues. It's important that you are on a daily regime to aid in evacuation and not wait until there is a major problem. I urge to to discuss this with your PCP. Together you should be able to work out a daily routine that will avoid serious constipation issues.

A glass of prune juice a day (if not contraindicated) can do wonders....add some  fresh fruits and vegetables and you may not require routine laxatives. But again discuss this with your PCP.

Best of luck to you. Please keep in touch. We're happy to have your input and questions.

Peace,
~Tuck