This article incorrectly said that William Stern of Rockville is a member of the governing board of the American Gastroenterological Association. He is the governor for Maryland in the American College of Gastroenterology and a member of the American Gastroenterological Association.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Prepare to hear a lot about blockage in the months ahead. Takeda Pharmaceuticals, which markets Amitiza, the first drug approved to treat chronic constipation of unknown origin, is about to launch a major ad campaign for the prescription product.
Rockville gastroenterologist William Stern, a member of the governing board of the American Gastroenterological Association, recommends you try these steps, in order, before going Rx.
¿ Sure it's a problem? For some people, normal is two to three bowel movements a day; for others, it's two to three times a week. If your pattern is steady and you're not uncomfortable, no need for concern.
¿ Add fiber to your diet, including beans, whole grains and bran cereals, fresh fruit, and vegetables such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and carrots.
¿ Drink more water.
¿ Consider over-the-counter laxatives such as Metamucil and milk of magnesia.
¿ Try Miralax, recently switched to OTC. It pushes fluid through the colon, often reversing constipation.
Still no luck? Now ask your doctor about Amitiza. Common side effects include nausea (taking the drug with food may help), diarrhea (ask your doctor to adjust the dose) and headache.
-- Francesca Lunzer Kritz
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