Understanding constipation treatment: do we need to strain to obtain better results?

Chronic constipation is a commonly encountered symptom in everyday clinical practice, and numerous drugs are available for its medical treatment. However, there are several misconceptions that still often limit an effective approach, as well as the fact that it is older but effective treatments are sometimes neglected in favor of more recent, but not necessarily more effective, treatments. The actual knowledge on the efficacy and safety of currently available laxative treatment for chronic constipation, as shown by the review on which this editorial comments, clearly demonstrates that constipation may be effectively treated in most cases. Those caring for constipated patients, however, must be confident with use (and misuse) of medical treatment, to avoid lack of efficacy and onset of side effects leading to drug withdrawal. As for many other pathological issues, understanding the pathophysiological grounds of the condition to face greatly simplifies and accurately individuates the problem, to target the problem and help in reaching the therapeutic goal.