Looking for an effective medication for constipation relief? Movicol may be the answer! Learn more about this medication, including its pros and cons, side effects, and more.
Introduction
We all know how constipation can be quite uncomfortable. You feel bloated, you might have a stomach ache, and sometimes even feel nauseous. The thought of going to the toilet becomes daunting, and you start to worry about what will happen if you don’t have a bowel movement. This is where Movicol comes in. But does it really work? In this blog post, we will be discussing everything you need to know about Movicol; from how it works, to the side effects, and even whether you need a prescription for it. By the end of this post, you will have a better understanding of Movicol and whether it is the right laxative for you. Let’s get started!
What is Movicol?
Movicol is a laxative that comes in white powder sachets. Each sachet of Movicol contains macrogol 3350, a type of polyethylene glycol. In addition to the main ingredient, Movicol also contains sodium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, lime and lemon flavoring, and acesulfame potassium as a sweetener. When dissolved in water, Movicol produces a solution that helps stimulate bowel movement.
Is Movicol a laxative or stool softener?
Movicol is a laxative that is used to treat constipation and empty the bowels. It works by drawing water into the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. Movicol comes in powder form and is taken orally with water. It can be taken by adults, adolescents, and the elderly but not children under 12 years old. It is even effective for very bad constipation, called fecal impaction.
“Constipation can vary from occasional episodes – when symptoms can range from mild to troublesome – through to chronic (persistent) constipation. In any of these cases, there can be troublesome symptoms that impact quality of life.
Straining in at least one out of every four bowel movements as well as passing small dry stools less than three times per week can indicate constipation. Sufferers can also complain of bloating, pain, lethargy and generally feeling unwell.”
movicol.com.au
How long does it take for Movicol to work?
Most people will start to see results within 24 hours of taking Movicol, but it may take up to 48 hours for the full effect depending on the severity of your constipation. For people with fecal impaction, Movicol can work in as little as three days. Otherwise, the duration of treatment usually lasts for about two weeks. You should continue taking Movicol for as long as your doctor has prescribed.
If you don’t see any results after three days of treatment, speak to your doctor or pharmacist. They may recommend that you take a higher dose or try a different laxative.
What are the side effects?
Movicol may have some side effects for some people, including an allergic reaction such as swelling of the lips, throat, tongue or face; difficulty in breathing; headaches; swollen ankles or hands; and indigestion, vomiting or diarrhoea. These side effects usually go away if you decrease the amount of Movicol intake, but it’s always best to check with your doctor.
Can I take it every day?
Movicol should only be taken as directed, so make sure you read the leaflet carefully. The recommended dose for constipation is one sachet a day, which can be increased to two or three sachets if needed. For fecal impaction, the dose is eight sachets a day within a six hour period. If you have heart problems, do not take more than two sachets in an hour. It’s important to drink plenty of water and increase the fibre in your diet while you take Movicol.
How much water should I drink with Movicol?
For constipation, the recommended dose is one sachet dissolved in 125ml (one-quarter pint) of water. This can be taken one to three times a day, depending on the severity of the constipation.
For fecal impaction, the recommended dose is eight sachets per day, dissolved in 125ml (one-quarter pint) of water each time. Movicol can be taken with or without food at any time. It is important to drink plenty of fluids while taking this medicine. This will help to prevent dehydration, which can make constipation worse.
Does Movicol clear you out?
Yes, Movicol can help to clear you out by relieving constipation and fecal impaction. It works by softening the stools and increasing the frequency of bowel movements. This is a medical condition in which hard and dry stools accumulate in the rectum, making it difficult to pass them. Movicol can help to relieve this by softening the stool and making it easier to pass. If you are still constipated after taking Movicol, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
Does Movicol reduce bloating?
According to an estimate, about 30% of the adult general population experiences bloating at some point. In most cases, Movicol is an effective and safe way to reduce bloating. However, as with any medication, there is a small risk of side effects. So, some patients may experience increased bloating, stomach pain, or rumbles after using Movicol.
So, if you experience any of these side effects, please contact your doctor or healthcare professional. They will be able to advise you on whether or not Movicol is the right treatment for you and can provide you with alternative options, if necessary.
Remember, everyone’s body is different and what works for one person may not work for another person.
Advantages of taking Movicol?
There are many advantages of taking Movicol, including:
● Relief from constipation and hard stools.
● Softer, more comfortable bowel movements.
● Easily break down fecal impactions.
● Effective bowel preparation for colonoscopies, barium enemas and other diagnostic procedures.
● Easy to take, with no need for dietary restrictions.
● Safe to take during pregnancy and whilst breastfeeding.
● Does not affect your ability to drive or use machines.
“MOVICOL is a gentle and effective treatment for both chronic and occasional constipation. It has been available around the world for more than 20 years, and there are many clinical studies that prove its effectiveness and gentle mode of action.”
movicol.com.au
Disadvantages of taking Movicol?
There are also some disadvantages of taking Movicol, including:
● Do not work effectively with anti-epileptics.
● May have side effects for some people.
● Cause cramping, bloating, and gas for some.
● May interfere with other medicines.
● May cause dehydration if not taken with enough water.
● Not recommended for use in children under the age of 12 and heart patients.
● Not fit for patients with gastrointestinal disorders.
Do you need a prescription?
No, you do not need a prescription for Movicol. You can buy it over the counter (OTC) at your local pharmacy. It can be prescribed by a doctor, but it is not necessary. You can take it for occasional use or for chronic constipation.
Where can you buy Movicol?
Movicol is available in pharmacies across Australia for purchase over the counter (OTC). You can also purchase Movicol online from websites such as Chemist Warehouse, Woolworths, My chemist, and more. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging when taking this medication.
Conclusion
Movicol is a safe and effective medication for the relief of constipation and fecal impaction. It is easy to take and does not require any dietary restrictions. However, some patients may experience side effects such as increased bloating, stomach pain, or rumbles. If you experience any of these side effects, please contact your doctor or healthcare professional. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids while taking this medicine to prevent dehydration. You can buy Movicol over the counter (OTC) at your local pharmacy or multiple online pharmacies.
Have you ever tried Movicol? What was your experience? Let us know in the comments below!
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