Chronic constipation refers to the inability to have a complete bowel movement. Sometimes, these bowel movements can be infrequent. Specifically, the Mayo Clinic says that signs of this medical problem include having less than three stools per week, straining during bowel movements and experiencing rectal blockage. Risk factors for developing constipation include being sedentary and not consuming enough fluids. Medicines used for chronic constipation help decrease constipation symptoms.
Bisacodyl
Bisacodyl, commonly sold as Dulcolax, is a laxative medication that stimulates bowel movement. Drugs.com says that bisacodyl specifically treats constipation and clears the bowels prior to surgery, colonoscopy and x-rays. Bisacodyl's less serious side effects include nausea, a skin rash, diarrhea, dizziness, weakness, indigestion and gas. Its serious side effects include weight gain, shortness of breath, rectal bleeding, confusion and stomach pain. Bisacodyl can also lead to low potassium levels (hypokalemia). Signs of hypokalemia include increased urination, confusion, muscle weakness and leg discomfort. Notify a physician when bisacodyl leads to these effects. Bisacodyl is a tablet taken daily or as prescribed.
Docusate
Docusate, commonly sold as Colace, is a stool softener that manages chronic constipation. Drugs.com says docusate's less concerning side effects include diarrhea, nausea, throat, a skin rash and diarrhea. Docusate's serious side effects include rectal bleeding, no bowel movements and a severe stomach pain. Notify a physician when side effects develop. Sometimes, docusate can lead to an allergic reaction. Signs of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, hives and swelling of the tongue, face, lips or throat. Call 911 when these effects develop. Docusate is a tablet or liquid medication taken daily or as prescribed.
Psyllium
Psyllium, commonly sold as Fiberall, Konsyl, Metamucil or Siblan, refers to a bulk-forming laxative that is used to manage constipation. MedlinePlus says that this medication specifically absorbs liquid in the intestines and creates a bulky stool, which makes bowel movements much easier. Its serious side effects include vomiting, nausea, a skin rash, stomach pain, difficulty swallowing and trouble breathing. Go to the emergency room when psyllium leads to these effects. It is important to not take digoxin, salicylates or nitrofurantoin within three hours of taking psyllium use as the combination can lead to drug interactions. Psyllium is available as a powder, wafer or granule taken one to three times daily.
