Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | Re: Need Answers PLEASE !!!!!!!!!

I'm a little out of my element here (I'm a D), but my understanding is that Zelnorm is an actual drug that somehow works "behind the scenes" to change your bowel function, while Miralax is an osmotic laxative. That is, Miralax draws water into your bowel to soften your stool. Given this, the more the merrier as far as water is concerned when taking Miralax.

Levbid is an anti-spasmodic. If your constipation and pain are being caused by your colon spasming, this should help. Because it relaxes the smooth muscles, though, I've seen some C's say it makes them more constipated. I assume this is because they also have problems with their colon's muscle function. Unfortunately, I don't think there's any way for you to know for yourself without trying it. I would think that what you want is enough to stop the spasming but not so much you slow the colon function.

Peppermint is a natural anti-spasmodic. If you don't have reflux, you might try that. As a hot tea it's wonderfully soothing and, unlike anti-spasmodics, it doesn't have side-effects.

I know Zelnorm is a short-term drug (although I think you can go off for a while, then on again), but I've seen posts from C's that Miralax is something you should be able to use for a long time. Because it doesn't force your bowels to do anything they don't want to, but simply sits there and draws in water, the theory is that it has no long-term detrimental effects. I'd do a Search on the Diet Board for Miralax with no time limit and see what people have said in the past - you should get a lot of hits. If I remember correctly, emcmaster in particular posted a fair amount about it.

Part of the role of Soluble Fiber is like that of Miralax - to draw water into the bowel. Laying down a good amount of Soluble Fiber, especially taking an SFS, should also help with the pain and cramping since it should keep your colon gently full making it harder for it to twist on itself. I don't know what "IE" is, so I can't comment on that.

You've probably already seen this, but if not take a look at the June 7 and June 22, 2005, Newsletters for some specific advice on dealing with constipation in the context of the EFI Diet.

I hope this helps and I wish you all the best. If you're looking for encouragement, you might keep an eye out AstroChick's posts - or check her old ones. You might also take a look at this old thread, from a C who has done very well using the EFI Diet alone.

HTH. Take care.

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