Question:
Are there effective PRESCRIPTION medications for constipation?

I find myself addressing this embarrassing and frustrating issue for the second time in less than two weeks. Thanks to everyone who was so kind about responding last time I asked. In the last 4 months I've increased water, tried Peri-Colace, Correctol, Dulcolax, LBS, Super Colon Cleanse, prunes and probably and handful of other things. I'm certain that I don't have a blockage because I can go if I take 3 or 4 laxatives at one time. Unfortunately, this leaves me completely miserable with cramps for at least 24 hours after taking them in spite of the relief I get from being able to go to the bathroom. I have a doctor's appointment Tuesday and I'd love to have some opinions on prescription medications before I ask him to prescribe something for me. Other than this aggravating and ongoing problem, I'd say WLS is perfect!! I'd do it again tomorrow. I appreciate your suggestions, advice and support.    — ronascott (posted on March 19, 2001)

March 18, 2001
Rona, I personally have not had the problem yet, because I am yet to have surgery, but my surgeon perscribes a "pre-nate advanced", that's a perscription pre natal vitamin that has a laxitive in it. My dad had his open distal rny in Nov and was experiencing problems with constipation and he went to my consult with me and they mentioned that they perscribe the pre nate advanced and my dad asked his surgeon (who is a different surgeon and did not know of Pre nate advanced) to perscribe him some and they have worked wonderfully,
   — Bonnie S.

March 18, 2001
I do medical transcription. The one that most of my docs use if none of the things that you named above work is "lactulose." That is by prescription and comes in a syrup. Hope it helps. Diane C.
   — Diane C.

March 19, 2001
A cup of coffee works well. Give it a try if you don't want to get the prescription.
   — [Deactivated Member]

March 19, 2001
This is kinda silly, but I find that one single, small McDonald's cheeseburger can get everything to come out of me....
   — Dee P.

March 19, 2001
MiraLax. It's new. It's a powder that is safe enough for kids. Mix it up in 8 oz of Crystal Light. Supposedly teaches the bowel to behave properly. No cramping, no violence. You just GO, but need to use it nightly for a month or so.
   — vitalady

March 21, 2001
well my mother who was always into natural things, use to tell me when my babies were constipated to give them light corn syrup mixed with water. the ratio was about 1tbs to 8 oz water. it always worked try it!!!
   — L. A.