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The Pharmacist Answers Podcast


Your health is probably one of the most important things to you.  Yet it can be one of the most complicated things to understand.  Our bodies are meant to work a certain way, but when they don't, we may never be 100% sure why or what to do about it - even after seeing a healthcare professional.

The Pharmacist Answers Podcast is hosted by Cynthia Hendrix, PharmD.  On the Podcast, you can learn the basics of body parts and organ groups, get a glimpse of how disease processes work, and learn some practical steps to take in your own flesh and blood relationships with healthcare providers.

Everyone's health story is different.  No one is truly a "textbook case".  You need someone who sees your uniqueness and help you gain the knowledge and confidence to have conversations, ask questions, and make decisions that are right for YOU!

*The Podcast started out as live conversations on Periscope.

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Jul 18, 2015

OTC Medications for Constipation

Stool softener (Colace = Docuasate) - it’s job is to go into your digestive tract and attract water to soften things up.

Laxative (Dulcolax = Bisocodyl) - increases peristalsis (natural, rhythmic wave-like movement of your intestinal muscles).

Constipation Basics

Constipation can be caused by either that rhythm slowing down or stuff being so hard that the natural rhythm can't move it fast enough.

Stool softeners make things softer so the natural motion can move it out, laxatives make the natural wave motion wave faster.

The downside to a stool softener is that it might not work fast enough for some people.

The downside to laxatives is that they might cause cramping and pain, and actually lead to diarrhea.

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