Druggist For The People

Four score and seven minutes ago (about an hour and a half) your physician brought forth, upon her desk, a new prescription, conceived in best medical practice, and dedicated to the proposition that all generics are created equal. Now we are engaged in a great civilian war, testing whether that medication, or any medication so conceived, and so dedicated, can help us long endure. And maybe we can feel good at the same time. For forty years as a pharmacist, I've been building bridges - from the doctor to those in need of important drug information - you. With respect for the listener, and from the perspective that it is better to apply a recommended course of therapy than it is to comply with an ordered course, the goal here is not to provide specific answers about your drug therapy, but rather to help you generate the questions that will that will empower you in this. Toward that end, there will be weekly podcasts, very often with guests who will be "the people".

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Druggist For The People

Constipation - The OTC Options

February 05, 2025 • Donald Schoeff R.Ph.

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Summary: Not all laxatives are created the same. Discussed in this episode are the nonpharmacologic options to relieve constipation, and the OTC Laxative options available should nonpharmacologic efforts fail. Included is a brief explanation of the peristaltic movement that is pooping, and how the different laxative options affect that process. Though there is often a silly poop joke or phrase lurking nearby i.e. dropping the kids off at the pool, a healthy and properly functioning bowel is essential for your overall health. Please consult your healthcare providers for any questions and guidance about constipation and your gut health.

Topics:

· Constipation Definition 02:00

· Before Using Laxatives 03:00

· OTC Laxatives 04:00

· Bulk Laxatives (Metamucil/Citrucel/Fibercon) 06:15

· Peristalsis and Bowel Movements 06:45

· Osmotic Laxatives (Miralax/MOM) 07:50

· Stool Softeners (Docusate) 09:30

· Lubricant Laxatives 10:00

· Stimulant Laxatives (Bisacodyl & Senna) 11:00

· Laxative Overuse 12:00

· Rx Laxatives

Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation – Linzess 12:30

Opiate Use – Relistor to prevent GI effects of opiates 13:10

· Onset of Action 14:30

- Bulk = 12 hrs to 3 days

- Stool Softeners = 12 hrs to 3 days

- Stimulant = 6 to12 hrs

- Lubricant = 6 to 12 hrs

- Enema/Suppository = 15 min to 1 hr

· Side Effects/Over usage 17:30

· Interactions with Medication  Consult Pharmacist 19:25

Questions and comments to druggistforthepeople@gmail.com

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Donald J. Schoeff, R.Ph.

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