7 Deceptive Medicines Leading to Chronic Constipation Issues

In a health-conscious world where many Americans are seeking natural remedies, it's important to be aware of the unexpected side effects that some common medications can have on our digestive systems. One such issue is constipation, which affects over 60 million Americans [1]. Here's a guide to seven medications that might be sneakily contributing to this common problem.

Muscle relaxers, such as cyclobenzaprine, baclofen, carisoprodol, and methocarbamol, pose a risk for causing constipation. Among these, cyclobenzaprine, due to its strong anticholinergic and CNS depressant effects, poses the highest risk [1].
Certain blood pressure medications, particularly calcium channel blockers (CCBs), are more likely to cause constipation compared to other classes like ACE inhibitors or ARBs [2].
GLP-1 receptor agonists, often used in diabetes and weight management, slow digestion and can lead to constipation [3]. Hydration can help mitigate this side effect.
Opioid analgesics, known for their effect on gut motility, are well-known culprits for causing constipation [4].

Other common medication classes that may cause constipation, though not explicitly listed here, often include some types of antacids, antidepressants, and iron supplements. However, the main seven identifiable from these sources revolve primarily around muscle relaxants, certain blood pressure meds, GLP-1s, and opioids.

On the positive side, some natural supplements can aid in managing blood pressure. Pterostilbene, a powerful antioxidant found in blueberries, is one such option [5].

Chronic use of over-the-counter pain medicines or even a day or two of narcotic pain medicines can lead to constipation. To combat nausea naturally, consider ginger tea or a few sips of cola, which can help without causing constipation [6].

It's worth noting that even laxatives, intended to alleviate constipation, can lead to dependency and worsen constipation in the long run.

Lastly, even some allergy medications and antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, can contribute to constipation [7].

If you don't have at least one, easy-to-pass bowel movement a day, you may be one of the 60 million Americans suffering from chronic constipation. Awareness of the medications that may be contributing to this issue is a crucial step towards finding relief.

References: [1] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/constipation/symptoms-causes/syc-20355864 [2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/in-depth/blood-pressure-medications/art-20046178 [3] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/in-depth/diuretics/art-20045765 [4] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/glyburide/art-20046245 [5] https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/colonoscopy/about/pac-20385016 [6] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nausea/in-depth/home-remedies/art-20048383 [7] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/antidepressants/art-20048378

In the realm of wellness, understanding the unexpected side effects of certain medications on digestive health is crucial, as constipation affects over 60 million Americans.
Muscle relaxers, including cyclobenzaprine, baclofen, carisoprodol, and methocarbamol, are potential contributors to constipation due to their anticholinergic and CNS depressant effects.
Blood pressure medications, especially calcium channel blockers (CCBs), are more likely to cause constipation compared to other classes like ACE inhibitors or ARBs.
GLP-1 receptor agonists, commonly used for diabetes and weight management, can slow digestion and potentially lead to constipation.
Opioid analgesics, known for their effect on gut motility, are often associated with constipation.
Besides these, antacids, antidepressants, and iron supplements can also contribute to constipation, although muscle relaxants, certain blood pressure meds, GLP-1s, and opioids are the main seven culprits identified so far.
Some natural supplements, like pterostilbene, an antioxidant found in blueberries, may aid in managing blood pressure without causing constipation.
It's essential to mind mental health, as some allergy medications and antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, can also contribute to constipation.