Pharmacist Explains the Best OTC Options for Constipation
Get expert guidance on choosing the right over-the-counter constipation treatment and knowing when to seek medical care.
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Constipation affects millions of people, whether it occurs occasionally or becomes a chronic concern. In this @WDTNTV Ask the Pharmacist segment, Dr. Shannon Yarosz, Assistant Professor of Pharmacy Practice at Cedarville University School of Pharmacy, explains common over-the-counter constipation medications, how they work, and when each option may be appropriate. Learn about fiber supplements, stool softeners, osmotic laxatives, and stimulant laxatives, along with important safety considerations and warning signs that should prompt a conversation with your healthcare provider.
Timestamps:
0:24 Common over-the-counter medications for constipation
0:38 Fiber supplements and psyllium fiber
0:47 Stool softeners and hard stools
1:01 Osmotic laxatives and how they work
1:22 Stimulant laxatives explained
1:31 Choosing the right medication for your symptoms
2:12 Safe use and daily use considerations
2:51 When to contact your healthcare provider
3:17 Warning signs and changes in bowel habits
Choosing the right constipation medication depends on your symptoms and health history. Dr. Yarosz discusses how pharmacists can help identify appropriate over-the-counter options and explains why some treatments may be better suited for occasional constipation, hard stools, or more severe cases. She also highlights the importance of following package directions and understanding which products are intended for short-term versus regular use.
If constipation lasts longer than a week despite appropriate treatment, if stimulant laxatives become necessary on a frequent basis, or if you notice blood in your stool or sudden changes in bowel habits, it may be time to speak with a healthcare provider.
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Dr. Shannon Yarosz explains common over-the-counter treatments for constipation, including fiber supplements, stool softeners, osmotic laxatives, and stimulant laxatives. Learn how to choose the right option based on your symptoms, use medications safely, recognize warning signs, and understand when to seek guidance from a pharmacist or healthcare provider.