Home Remedies to Combat Frustrating Drug-Induced Constipation

How often has your healthcare provider warned you about side effects of a medication he or she is prescribing? They might mention a serious side effect, but a symptom like drug-induced constipation is often considered a minor problem and not worth a discussion. Although constipation is not usually life-threatening, it can certainly have an impact on quality of life.

Dealing with Drug-Induced Constipation

Q. My problem is constipation. I have tried many different foods and over-the-counter remedies, but none has helped for very long. Metamucil worked for five months before it stopped producing results. Now I am eating prunes and drinking more water which also helped for a few weeks.

Could this problem be a reaction to my medications? I have told my doctor, but she does not seem to be concerned. Two colonoscopies revealed polyps and diverticulosis.

The medications I take are Carbatrol, enalapril, verapamil, Levothroid and gemfibrozil. I would appreciate any help you can provide.

A. You might indeed be having problems with constipation as a result of your prescription drugs. Verapamil is the most likely suspect. You could ask your doctor whether she might help you switch to a different blood pressure medication. Hypothyroidism can also contribute to constipation, so the dose of levothyroxine (Levothroid) might need to be re-evaluated.

We’d also suggest maintaining your fiber and fluid intake, which should be helpful once you have found a different hypertension treatment.

Important Medications Can Cause Constipation

Q. I take meds to control my high blood pressure (verapamil and clonidine), cholesterol (atorvastatin) and pain (tramadol). This causes major constipation, which I suspect is related to the drugs. Are there any natural remedies to help with this problem?

I drink lots of water, but that doesn’t help. I would hate to add another drug to the list to combat constipation caused by the meds.

A. You are batting a thousand for drugs that cause constipation. Every one of your medications can contribute to this problem, so it’s no wonder you are suffering.

The first strategy in addressing this drug-induced constipation might be to ask your physician to determine whether there are alternate medications that don’t have constipation as a side effect. That way you can get to the source of the problem.

Non-drug strategies to combat drug-induced constipation include sugarless gum, psyllium (which will also help with cholesterol control), magnesium supplements and “Power Pudding.” This formula involves unprocessed bran, prune juice and applesauce. A tablespoon taken with plenty of water can be helpful.

Water by itself probably won’t help that much, but increasing fiber together with water can make a difference.

Learn More

Our eGuides to Constipation and Overcoming Digestive Disorders have more details about medicines that may contribute to constipation. In addition, you will find a dynamite Pumpkin-Bran muffin recipe to ease your discomfort and our top 10 tips to combat constipation. You’ll also be able to read about sources of fiber to add to your diet.