Page 56 - Community pharmcy practice E-book 2025
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01/11/2025, 22:08 Medication Errors & Constipation Management
Constipation in the Elderly
Constipation is more common in the elderly because:
Medications (drug-induced constipation)
Diet (poor nutrition) and fluids (less intake)
Decreased physical activity resulting from chronic diseases
The power of the bowel muscles diminishes with age (age related decrease in gut motility)
Advice to Elderly
Diet and fluid intake changes
More physical activity
Medications (bulk forming & osmotic laxatives)
Constipation in Pregnancy
Hormonal changes (progesterone level - progesterone acts as muscle relaxant)
The growth of the uterus presses on the bowel and slows the passage of stool
which may make it painful
Prolonged immobilization, lifestyle, no exercise
Insufficient intake of fiber and fluids, as well as eating habits that are highly
irregular
They usually take vitamins containing iron and calcium both of which can cause
constipation
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