Common Medications for Constipation

• How do bulk-forming medications work?

  They absorb water, increasing bulk and stimulating peristalsis
• What is the function of stool softeners and lubricants?

  They lubricate the intestinal tract and soften feces
• What do saline and osmotic solutions do?

  They cause retention of fluid in the intestinal lumen
• How do stimulant laxatives increase peristalsis?

  By irritating the colon wall and stimulating enteric nerves
• What is the primary difference between bulk-forming medications and stimulant laxatives?

  Bulk-forming medications absorb water, stimulants irritate the colon