Background: There are multiple therapeutic options for the management of constipation, from lifestyle modifications to the use of laxatives and in extreme cases surgery.
Objectives and methods: To establish the clinical guidelines for diagnosis and treatment of chronic constipation in Mexico we conducted a review of the literature regarding medical and surgical treatments for chronic constipation and have made recommendations based on evidence.
Results: Low water consumption, physical inactivity and low intake of fiber are conditions associated with chronic constipation, but the evidence to prove these associations is scarce. Bolus forming agents are useful in the management of constipation with normal colonic transit and defecation without dissynergia. Evidence supports the use of lactulose (IB) and polyethylene glycol (IA) as the most safe and effective agents in the long term in adults. The use of stimulant laxatives (docusate, picosulfate, senna) is recommended only for short periods. Tegaserod is an agonist of 5-HT4 receptors and there are many clinical trials supporting its effectiveness in the management of functional constipation (IA). However "their cardiovascular safety has been questioned recently. Biofeedback therapy is the gold standard in the management of constipation associated with pelvic floor dyssynergia. Surgical treatment is reserved for extreme cases of colonic inertia.
Conclusions: The treatment of constipation should be based on the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms and the selection of drugs must be made according to the scientific evidence.