Does Ibuprofen Cause Constipation?

The medical definition of constipation is an acute or chronic condition in which the bowel consists of hard, dry stools that are painful or difficult to pass, and bowel movements occur less often than usual. At the same time, bowel habits vary by individual according to age. A lack of dietary fibre typically causes constipation, but medications often cause it.

The recommended daily fibre intake is 25-30 grams. Some medications have side effects of constipation that should be treated with lifestyle changes or other drugs that treat symptoms. Long-term use of NSAIDs also causes gut-related side effects, including stomach ulcers, bleeding, or constipation.

Can NSAIDs Make You Constipated?

Yes. Chronic constipation is associated with using Acetaminophen, Aspirin, and Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs. There is evidence that regular painkillers like aspirin and ibuprofen may cause a problem related to the gut.

An increased risk of developing ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding is commonly associated with ibuprofen because the stomach lining is blocked, so the stomach receives less protection than it usually would.

How Does Ibuprofen Cause Constipation?

One of the side effects of ibuprofen is constipation, especially among the elderly. It should be noted that as compared to other similar pain relievers, ibuprofen has a much lower likelihood of causing constipation. NSAIDs like ibuprofen can cause damage to the stomach, kidneys, and heart (blood pressure), headaches.

It can also make you sleepy and dizzy when taken for extended periods at a high dose. Ibuprofen is said to be non-selective. They block the effects of both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, while selective NSAIDs block only the action of the COX-2 enzyme.

How To Avoid Constipation Without Compromising On Your Medicine?

• Adding more fibre to food, such as beans and leafy greens, and staying well hydrated helps prevent constipation.
• Regularly exercise because it can help food move more quickly through your colon.
• Polyethylene glycol is over a counter medication to relieve constipation.
• Use Laxatives under doctor advice.
• Maintain a healthy diet. (Source)

What Are The Methods To Avoid Constipation Caused By Ibuprofen? (Natural + Medicines)

Constipation means you do not have regular bowel movements, or the stool is hard to pass. Laxatives are drugs used to treat constipation. There are different types of laxatives to help with different kinds of problems. Examples of brand-name OTC laxatives are listed below, used to treat constipation.

• Correctol Soft gels and Fleet Sof-Lax are also stool softeners. They work by softening stools and making them easier to pass. Stool softeners need a good amount of fluids to operate. Drink plenty of fluids when taking these stool softeners.
• Senokot and senna are called stimulants. Stimulants work in the intestines and cause a bowel movement. Caution: if you use them for a long time, Your body can start to rely upon them to pass stool.
• MiraLAX, milk of magnesia, and magnesium sulfate (or Epsom salt) are cosmetics. They work by taking water from the body and bringing it to the small intestine and colon. More water increases the size and shape of the stool and makes it easier to pass. drink plenty of water when taking osmosis.
• Mineral oil is a lubricant used for constipation. Mineral oil works by putting a slippery film on the stool and inside the intestine to prevent the stool from drying out and make it easier to pass. Lubricants can take up to eight hours to work in the body.
  Metamucil and Citrucel are fibre laxatives. These laxatives work by sucking up liquid in the intestines and forming a stool that is easy to pass.
• Foods that help with constipation
• To improve your constipation symptoms, you have to change your dietary habits. This includes options like:
• Eat foods that are high in fiber
• Eat Foods that contain prebiotics or probiotics
• Drink more water
• Drink coffee

These are just some possible changes you can make at home to relieve constipation symptoms.

List Of Other NSAIDs That Causes Constipation

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), cause constipation. These medications are usually used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. But in most cases, they can be used for a longer time. When they’re used daily, they’re more likely to cause constipation.

Conclusion

The relationship between disorders of the gut and common analgesics is complex, but drugs can play a role in the etiology or maintenance of some diseases. Many health conditions, lifestyle factors, and medications can contribute to constipation symptoms. If you have constipation and think one of your medications or supplements may be causing it, consider talking to your pharmacist or physician.