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Constipation (cont.)

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What causes constipation?

Theoretically, constipation can be caused by the slow passage of digesting food through any part of the intestine. Most of the time, however, the slowing occurs in the colon.

Medications that cause constipation


In addition to the medications listed above, there are many others that can cause constipation. Simple measures for treating the constipation (for example, increasing dietary fiber) caused by medications often are effective, and discontinuing the medication may not be not necessary. If simple measures don't work, it may be possible to substitute a less constipating medication. For example, a nonsteroidal ant-inflammatory drug (for example, ibuprofen) may be substituted for narcotic pain medications, or one of the newer and less constipating antidepressant medications.

Medically Reviewed by a Doctor on 7/15/2014

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