Pharmacological treatment of chronic constipation: focused on oral laxatives

Chronic constipation is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder that may have a significant impact on the quality of life of affected individuals. If dietary and lifestyle modifications are not successful, pharmacological interventions should be used to manage chronic constipation. The first-line conventional laxatives include bulk-forming, osmotic, and stimulant laxatives. If chronic constipation is refractory to conventional laxatives, prucalopride should be considered. The choice of a laxative should be made based on a consideration of the treatment duration, dosing schedule, type of agent, effects, and side effects of the agent, as well as cost-effectiveness. An individualized approach is needed according to the patient's underlying disease and clinical condition.