QuestionHi there,
I am a 54 year old female with chronic pain from spinal stenosis and discs. I take Hydrocodone-APAP 10-325 mg, 1.5 to 2 pills per day. Constipation was not a side effect for me until I started improving my diet: way less fat, lots more fruit and raw vegs. Now it's a real problem.
I used Docusate sodium 100mg stool softener but was taking twice the recommended dosage without satisfactory result. I'm concerned about the sodium because I want to limit my salt intake.
The next thing I tried was Miralax (Polyetheline Glycol) laxative and this works better. The instructions say not to use for more than 7 days, and I'm on pain meds for the long term.
I'm drinking plenty of water and get a lot of fiber in my diet. I don't get much exercise due to my back problems.
What are your thoughts? What do you recommend?
Thank you
AnswerDear Mary,
Miralax is a safe medication to help you to stay regular while taking opiates. There is no time constraint on how long you can use it. It is not a stimulant laxative, so it therefore does not have the cramping side effects or the increase in stimuli to the intestinal tract. The reason for the 7 day warning, is to be sure you are not overlooking a serious medical condition, namely colon cancer. Hope this helps.
