The updated guidelines include 10 evidence-based recommendations for the treatment of CIC.
Two treatmentsmagnesium oxide and sennaare included in the recommendations for the first time.
What Is Chronic Idiopathic Constipation?
Photo Illustration by Lecia Landis for Verywell Health; Getty Images
What Are Magnesium Oxide and Senna?
Sennacomes from the herbSenna alexandrinaand acts as a stimulant laxative, making it different from magnesium oxide.
Gerber said that both options are available over-the-counter (OTC) in capsule, pill, or tablet forms.
Magnesium oxide also comes in a powder, and senna can be made into tea.
Why Are Experts Recommending These Treatments Now?
What does that mean for providers and patients?
Why Did Experts Make the Recommendation If the Evidence Is Limited?
The cost of managing constipation can be very high, she said.
The medical costs of managing CIC range from $2,000 to $7,500 dollars per patient per year.
What Other Evidence-Backed Treatments for Constipation Exist?
Guidelines are there to guide us, they dont dictate how we practice, said Chhabra.
Its really about understanding the patient and what works best for them and their preferences.
When Is Constipation a Sign of Something Serious?
2023;118(6):936-954. doi:10.14309/ajg.0000000000002227
MedlinePlus.Magnesium oxide.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Treatment for constipation.
