# 015 constipation, 2nd ed

http://www.mcw.edu/EPERC/FastFactsIndex/Documents/15Constipation.
FAST FACTS AND CONCEPTS #15 (PDF)
Authors(s): James Hallenbeck MD
Constipation – it's not fun to have or to treat. As with other symptoms, rational therapy should be based on a
sound understanding of underlying physiology. Our goal in treating constipation is generally not to "cure"
something, but to help the patient return to the best possible balance that will allow a normal bowel movement to
be passed. Four major components affect the production of a normal BM: solid waste, water, motility and
lubrication.
Solid Waste – Too much or too little is a problem. The intestine is most efficient pushing intermediate volumes.
Patients on fiber-poor diets may improve if fiber is added. Note: In patients with minimal fluid intake or poor gut
motility (e.g. the dying patient) additional fiber can worsen the situation, causing a 'soft impaction'.
Water Content – Stool water content depends on how much water we drink, our general hydration status, how
much water is absorbed from and secreted into the intestine and how fast stool moves through the bowel. Any of
these variables can be manipulated. It is easiest to limit absorption (and increase secretion into the gut) by
adding osmotically active particles that retain water (e.g. Magnesium salts, non-absorbable sugars such as
sorbitol and lactulose, or polyethylene glycol [PEG]). Note: Magnesium and phosphorus salts are contraindicated
in renal failure. Hyperosmolar solutions may worsen dehydration by drawing body water into the gut lumen.
Sickly-sweet sorbitol and lactulose may be difficult to for patients to tolerate. PEG is flavorless and may be better
tolerated.
Motility – Patients with low-activity levels (bed-ridden, dying patients and patients with advanced
neurodegenerative disorders) and use of certain drugs (see below) lead to motility problems. Senna preparations,
which stimulate the myenteric plexus are generally favored. Use senna tablets (or granules, liquid, or tea), starting with 1 tab QHS, may be gradually increased to 4 tabs BID if needed. Before increasing motility, evacuateexisting constipated stool with an enema or cramping can result.
Lubrication simply eases passage and minimizes pain that can interfere with excretion. Most commonly used is
dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate (DSS, or docusate), which decreases stool surface tension much like soap. Usual
dosage is 240 mg PO daily or BID. DSS also tastes like soap, so liquid DSS should never be given PO, but may be
given to tube-fed patients. Note: DSS is commonly used in combination with senna in opioid-induced constipation,
but is generally inadequate as a sole agent. Mineral oil can be used as an enema but should not be given PO, as
pneumonitis can result if aspirated. Glycerin suppositories can provide lubrication and draw-in water due to
osmotically active particles.
Medications that can cause/exacerbate constipation: Opioids, anticholinergics (tricyclic antidepressants,
scopolamine, oxybutinin, promethazine, diphenhydramine), lithium, verapamil, bismuth, iron, aluminum, aalcium
salts.
References
1. Klaschik E, Nauck F, Ostgathe C. Constipation--modern laxative therapy. Support Care Cancer. 2003; 2. Mancini I, Bruera E. Constipation in advanced cancer patients. Support Care Cancer. 1998; 6(4):356-364.
Fast Facts and Concepts are edited by Drew A. Rosielle MD, Palliative Care Center, Medical College of
Wisconsin. For more information write to: [email protected]. More information, as well as the complete set of
http://www.mcw.edu/EPERC/FastFactsIndex/Documents/15Constipation.
Fast Facts, are available at EPERC: www.eperc.mcw.edu.
Version History: 2nd Edition published August 2005. Current version re-copy-edited March 2009.
Copyright/Referencing Information: Users are free to download and distribute Fast Facts for educational
purposes only. Hallenbeck J. Constipation, 2nd Edition. Fast Facts and Concepts. August 2005; 15. Available at:
http://www.eperc.mcw.edu/fastfact/ff_015.htm.
Disclaimer: Fast Facts and Concepts provide educational information. This information is not medical advice.
Health care providers should exercise their own independent clinical judgment. Some Fast Facts cite the use of a
product in a dosage, for an indication, or in a manner other than that recommended in the product labeling.
Accordingly, the official prescribing information should be consulted before any such product is used.
ACGME Competencies: Medical Knowledge, Patient Care
Keyword(s): Non-Pain Symptoms and Syndromes
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