Summary of the Various Agents of Chronic Constipation (Adapted From Soh et al55)
| Category | Agent | Range of dosage | Duration of treatment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Osmotic laxatives | Polyethylene glycol | 13-39 g/day | Up to 6 mo |
| Lactulose | 15-60 mL | 1-12 wk | |
| Stimulant laxatives | Bisacodyl | 5-10 mg/day | 4 wk |
| 5-HT4 agonist | Prucalopride | ||
| > 65 yr | 1 mg/day | 12 wk | |
| 18-65 yr | 2 mg/day | 12 wk | |
| Prosecretory agents | Linaclotide | 16-72 μg/day | 12 wk |
| Lubiprostone | 145-290 μg/day | Up to 6 mo |
5-HT4, 5-hydroxytryptamine type 4.