AboutDr. Tara Kompare, Pharm.D. Expertise I can answer a broad range of questions related to community pharmacy practice. My particular
interests include childrens` health and safe medication use for seniors. As the mother of two small children, I am quite knowledgable on many parenting issues from how to handle
a baby with colic to how to get kids to take their medicine. With regards to medication use in seniors, I can answer questions about adverse effects, drugs to generally avoid
in that population, and disease management issues.
Experience I entered the world of pharmacy as a technician for approximately six years. I then went on to receive my Doctor of Pharmacy degree and now work for the Federal Government as an outpatient pharmacist.
Publications Drug Topics Feb.2006 edition ("Why a Kiddie Corner Makes Sense"),
I also recently submitted an article to Pharmacy Times entitled "How to Help Parents Cope With Colic" which is scheduled for publication in the near future.
Education/Credentials B.S. Biology (Old Dominion University 1997)
Pharm.D.(Virginia Commonwealth University 2002)
Question Dear Dr Kompare, my 10 1/2 yr old daughter has fetal valproate syndrome with spina bifida (her lesion is lumbar sacral - she is mobile and not shunted. She takes ditropan 5mg tablets to assist with bladder control. Her current dose is 5mg morn. and 2.5mg at lunch. I have read on another site that ditropan can cause constipation. My daughter has had a MACE procedure and this is done every 2nd day, but there are times when she has chronic problems with her bowels not being able to able clear properly. Is this likely to be due to the ditropan or an unfortunate problem that she will have to live with because of her condition?
I look forward to your answer, Deborah
Answer Hi Deborah,
From what I know about spina bifida, constipation can be a problem. One of the best ways to help prevent this is to increase fiber intake through the use of over the counter supplements like Fibercon. These can be mixed in juice and are relatively tasteless. Also, another great thing for kids with constipation is popcorn. Because it is so fibrous, it helps relieve constipation in the young and old alike.
And, Ditropan can, and often does, cause constipation. Unfortunately, most of the drugs used for incontinence, etc can cause the same side effects. Hopefully, if you increase her fiber intake and encourage lots of fruits and veggies in her diet, this will help.
