Abstract
Constipation is extremely common in older persons. It is a subjective condition but objectively defined by the Rome criteria. Prevention consists of fluids, fibre and exercise. Treatment begins with osmotic laxatives. Lubiprostone is expensive but efficacious for treatment-resistant constipation. Methylnaltrexone can be used for opiate-induced constipation.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Pathy's Principles and Practice of Geriatric Medicine |
| Subtitle of host publication | Fifth Edition |
| Publisher | John Wiley and Sons |
| Pages | 303-312 |
| Number of pages | 10 |
| Volume | 1 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9780470683934 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Mar 12 2012 |
Keywords
- Colchicine
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Lubiprostone
- Methylnaltrexone
- Osmotic laxatives
- Psyllium
- Sulfosuccinate
- Tegaserod