There are many different reasons why we get constipation, some quite surprising. Unfortunately, while these medications are helping one part of your body or mind, they can slow down your gut in the process.
Top 5 medications that can cause constipation
Constipation is a surprisingly common side effect of many commonly prescribed and over-the-counter medications. While these medications play a vital role in managing health conditions, they can sometimes interfere with the normal function of the digestive system. Below are five types of medications most frequently associated with constipation:
1. Painkillers
Pain relief medications, particularly opioid-based painkillers such as morphine, oxycodone, or codeine, are well known for causing constipation. One of the most troublesome and widespread side effects of opioids is their ability to slow down the movement of the gastrointestinal tract. This reduced motility can lead to infrequent, difficult, or painful bowel movements. Unfortunately, the longer these medications are used, the more likely constipation becomes, often requiring additional treatment or lifestyle adjustments to manage the side effect.
2. Antidepressants
While antidepressants can be life-changing when dealing with mental health conditions, they can also bring about digestive challenges, constipation being one of the most common. Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are especially known for affecting the nervous system in a way that slows intestinal movement.
3. Iron supplements
Iron supplements are frequently prescribed for anaemia or low iron levels. However, they often come with an unpleasant side effect: constipation. Iron is notoriously difficult for the body to absorb, and the unabsorbed iron that remains in the digestive tract can harden stools and slow transit time. This effect is more common with certain forms of iron, such as ferrous sulphate, and is often worsened if not taken with adequate fluids or dietary fibre.
4. Antihistamines
Antihistamines, commonly used to treat allergies, hay fever, and colds, can also lead to constipation, especially when used regularly or over extended periods. These medications work by blocking histamine receptors in the body but can also have a drying effect, which impacts the moisture in the digestive tract. This can slow digestion and make stools harder and more difficult to pass.
5. Blood pressure medications
Several types of medications used to manage high blood pressure can interfere with normal bowel function. These drugs may relax smooth muscle tissue, including those in the intestines, slowing down the digestive process. While not all blood pressure medications cause constipation, it’s a common complaint among patients taking certain types.
How to treat constipation
Managing your constipation long term while on these medications may be required. There are few things you can do.
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Drink more water. Keeping up with your fluid intake is always important when you feel constipated as it can help to get things moving.
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Eat well and exercise. While it’s a no-brainer to add some fibre into your diet, it’s also important to keep an overall healthy diet as processed food does not help with constipation. When it comes to exercise, something as simple as walking every day, or doing some yoga, can make a huge difference.
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Take a natural stool softener. ConstaClear is a natural laxative that contains heavy magnesium oxide which softens the stool to ease bowel motions.
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Try an at-home water, herbal, or coffee enema. Check out our bundles.
At Happy Bum Co, we’re always happy to answer any questions you might have. Download our free Constipation Guide for more information or simply send us an email.
