Prescription Medications for Constipation: Zelnorm May Not Be Enough

Four and one-half million Americans suffer constipation most of the time, but only in August of 2004 did the FDA approve the first prescription medication for relief of symptoms, Zelnorm (tegaserod maleate). This drug was designed for the treatment of chronic idiopathic conditions in male and female patients less than 65 years of age. That is, it is a drug intended to treat the condition when there are no physical obstructions of the bowel or drugs that that would interfere with regularity.

Zelnorm’s primary use is for stimulating complete bowel movement. It also reduces straining, hard stools, bloating, and abdominal discomfort. Zelnorm has been approved since 2002 for treatment of irritable bowel syndrome causing the condition.

The problems with Zelnorm occur when it is overdosed.

Zelnorm may serious diarrhea, including significant loss of fluid, resulting in low blood pressure and episodes of passing out. The manufacturer recommends that Zelnorm should be discontinued immediately in patients who develop low blood pressure or fainting spells.

These serious side effects have led researchers to seek alternative prescription medications for relief. None have yet reached the US market, but at least one helpful product can be used with Zelnorm

Enteric-coated peppermint oil can relieve the severe cramping accompanying constipation or accompanying overdoses of Zelnorm. It can also help you withdraw from anti-spasmodic prescription drugs for constipation like Bentyl and Levsin. And it can help you use less Zelnorm, under your doctor’s supervision.

Just be sure the peppermint product you take is in a coated capsule. The coating allows it to survive the acid environment of the stomach to reach the intestine, where it is needed. And never stop any prescription medication without advice of an appropriate health care professional.

Also read our article about Constipation and Irritable Bowel Syndrome