Key facts about managing bowel incontinence - Drugs

Medical treatment of constipation and diarrhoea

Are there any drugs that can be used to control stool consistency?
Yes. Drugs can sometimes be used to control stool consistency, but should only be used for a limited period of time. Long term use of drugs may have a damaging effect on bowel functions.

There are four types of drugs prescribed:

• laxatives (to deal with constipation)
• bulk forming agents (making your stools bigger)
• stool softeners (softening your stools)
• stool hardeners (hardening your stools).