Supplemental & Pharmacological Updates for Chronic Constipation

Adult constipation continues to be a leading concern among patients presenting to naturopathic physicians. Available pharmacological treatments have grown tremendously over the last decade, but much prescribing remains in the hands of GI specialists. This talk will review the various supplemental, over-the-counter, and pharmacologic approaches to addressing constipation in adults, including dispelling some long-standing myths associated with use of stimulant laxatives, dosing tips, and troubleshooting adverse effects.

Learning Objectives

• Review available supplemental and pharmacologic interventions for adult constipation
• Confidently prescribe osmotic laxatives, stimulant laxatives, secretagogues, and prokinetics
• Manage adverse effects to improve patient tolerability and outcomes