Consult Your Pharmacist
Discerning normal bowel movement frequency is the first step in helping patients resolve this common gastrointestinal problem. Constipation is the most common gastrointestinal problem in the U.S. Each year, it causes over 2.5 million visits to physicians, and patients spend over $725 million on nonprescription products to treat it. Fortunately, pharmacists can offer patients a wide range of advice. They can help explore the causes of constipation and recommend simple lifestyle alterations, as well as point out the advantages and disadvantages of various nonprescription treatments.