Why codeine causes constipation

Kiwifruit may also improve the symptoms of constipation. Aim for a fluid intake of at least 1. If you have heart failure or advanced chronic kidney disease check with your doctor about how much fluid you can have. Being active and doing exercise helps to stimulate the natural movement of your gut muscles that move stools out.

Some people find it difficult to talk about constipation with their doctor or pharmacist. However, they are used to talking about bowel movements, so it's okay to ask, 'could the medicine I am taking cause constipation?

Looking for Where to get medical help A health professional or service Patient portals Newsletters View all. Pain medications such opioids codeine, morphine, tramadol, oxycodone or amitriptyline — if you have these medicines regularly you will need to take a laxative.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Clozapine — constipation is a very common side effect of clozapine up to 6 in every 10 people taking clozapine may experience constipation. If not treated, it can lead to serious problems. Let your doctor know if you have stomach pain or feel unwell — you may have constipation that needs to be treated immediately. Read more about clozapine. SSRIs such as fluoxetine and citalopram.

Calcium channel blockers such as diltiazem and verapamil. Medicines for urinary incontinence such as oxybutynin. Note: This is not a complete list. However, these drugs can also have adverse effects, including constipation. People use opioids to manage severe pain. However, treatment is often available through natural means or in the form of over-the-counter or prescription medication. Read on to learn more about the link between opioids and constipation.

Opioids are a medication that are useful for treating severe pain, especially during the later stages of cancer. Opioids bind to specific proteins in the body called opioid receptors. These are present in the brain, spinal cord, and gastrointestinal tract.

However, opioids also depress, or slow down, the central nervous system. As constipation is a common side effect of opioid use, a doctor may prescribe medication to prevent it when they prescribe the opioid. This can prevent the problem from developing.

Senna, for example, is available in teas, remedies, and pharmaceutical preparations. However, doctors usually only recommend taking senna for occasional constipation.

Also, aloe vera is a traditional ingredient in constipation remedies. However, these are no longer sold over the counter in the United States, because their safety and effectiveness are uncertain. Speak to a doctor before taking an herbal remedy, because some remedies can interfere with medications. Doctors often prescribe opioid medications for people with cancer, especially when the disease is in later stages.

In , researchers published the results of an investigation into how types and dosages of opioid prescriptions changed over a 6-year period for people with cancer. The researchers studied relevant U. Fiber has a laxative effect because it increases water absorption in the colon.

This forms bulkier stools and helps stools pass easier. Bulk-forming fiber supplements include psyllium Metamucil and methylcellulose Citrucel. Although fiber supplements are an effective remedy for constipation, more studies and research are needed to confirm the efficacy of fiber supplements for OIC.

You should eat between 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day. Take one to three tablespoons daily of Citrucel or use Metamucil up to three times a day. Be sure to follow the directions on the Citrucel or Metamucil product you use.

Fiber supplements can decrease the absorption of some medications such as aspirin. Talk with your doctor before combining a fiber supplement with any prescription medications. Aloe vera may also relieve OIC.

In one study , rats were given an oral administration of loperamide to induce constipation. They were then treated with aloe vera in the following doses for seven days: 50, , and milligram mg for each kilogram of body weight. The study found that the rats receiving the extract had improved intestinal motility and fecal volume.

Based on the study, the laxative effect of aloe vera may improve drug-induced constipation. Consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking aloe vera. The herb may decrease the effectiveness of certain medications, such as:. Senna is a yellow flowering plant. Its leaves have a laxative effect that can help naturally relieve OIC. A small study found that senna improved post-surgery OIC when taken daily for six days. You can buy dry senna leaves from a health foods store and brew them in hot water.

Or, you can purchase sennosides tablets Senokot from a grocery or drugstore. The usual starting dose for adults is 10 mg to 60 mg daily. Senna should be taken on a short-term basis. Long-term use can cause diarrhea and trigger an electrolyte imbalance. This herb may also increase the risk of bleeding when taken with warfarin Coumadin , a blood thinner.

A few home remedies may also improve OIC or help you manage discomfort. Try these along with medications or natural remedies:. Increase physical activity. Exercise and physical activity stimulate contractions in the intestinal tract and promote bowel activity.