Pharmacological management of chronic constipation in older adults.

Chronic constipation in older adults has multiple etiologies, and many of these factors are interrelated. An initial medical history and physical examination can provide relevant clues to the causes of the problem. The Rome III classification system of functional constipation is useful in clinical practice to help clinicians identify symptoms and confirm a diagnosis. Additionally, the Bristol Stool Scale is a valuable medical aid designed to assist patients in describing bowel patterns in a way that is more useful for diagnosis and evaluation of treatment methods. Pharmacological management, along with dietary changes and patient education, is the initial approach to treat patients with idiopathic chronic constipation. Consensus statements support a five-step care approach for patients with constipation. Knowledge of this approach will help clinicians in prescribing the appropriate medications along with patient education.