AboutBarbara Judge Expertise Outpatient pharmacy and general health. I have recently completed a Pharmceutical Care Certificate Program offered by Purdue University (Spring 1999 completion). I have personal experience dealing with terminally ill persons and their needs, as well as their families` needs. I graduated in 1984 from Pharmacy School and have been a Licensed Pharmacist since then. I have 18 years retail pharmacy experience. Prior to my pharmacy training I have 3 years hospital experience as a Nurse`s Aide.
Question I am also an expert on this site in the field of orthopedics.
I am currently taking 30mgs of Avinza daily to combat the pain of AVN of the hips and knees. After the initial problems of getting used to the drug, I find that I am extremely constipated and I am taking over the counter Senna vegetable laxative for help (this was approved by my doctor), but it's not helping. I have begun to have problems with hemorrhoids and gas pain.
What can I do to combat the constipation. I have tried prune juice and the senna that colace which is not really helping. The Avinza is perfect for my chronic pain, but the constipation is extremely troubling
Thank you for your time.
Sharon DAvis
Answer Avinza is very noted for causing constipation. It sounds like you have tried the majority of over the counter products that are best for drug induced constipation. I would advise drinking lots more water and talking to your doctor about the prescription choices for constipation. Depending on any other underlying medical conditions you could have there are 2 products available. Miralax is a powder you mix to form an electrolyte solution to take orally which is a laxative. This would not be appropriate if you have other medical conditions which could be aggrevated by increased sodium or potassium intake. Lactulose is a concentrated form of sugars which acts as a laxative by pulling water into the intestine to dilute the sugars. It would not be indicated if you are diabetic. If you think either of these would not potentially worsen your health you may consider talking to your doctor about them.
