Waynesville, NC
A 77-year-old male asked:
severe constipation due to possible drug interaction. am taking famciclovir 500mg, gabapentin 600mg and benzonatate 100 mg?
3 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Jan Lei Iwataanswered
Ophthalmology 26 years experience
Talk to your PCP or: prescriber of medication. To help relieve constipation, remember to hydrate well, as dry stools tend to impact more, and cause constipation. Also, you can use a bulk laxative, or more vegetables (rough fiber), or stool softeners. If it's a chronic problem, your PCP needs to get involved, and you should discuss your concerns with her/him. See what's the easiest,safest alternatives.
3.8k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Steve Choianswered
Family Medicine 22 years experience
Known side effects: Both gabapentin and benzonatate can cause constipation, so the effects of both could lead to the severity of your symptoms.
3.8k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A Verified Doctoranswered
A US doctor answeredLearn more
Osmotic: do not use enemas or cathartics. I would advise colonoscopy by a GI specialist to make sure that this is, indeed a drug effect. I would suggest a very gentle osmotic laxitive, only if cleared by your physician. You should ask about the use of this product: Miralax- use only if approved by your physician
3.8k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
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Last updated Aug 29, 2015
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