The Constipation Conversation Has Been Backed Up for Years.

From fears about laxative dependence to questions about pediatric safety, some laxative myths are still stuck in the system… despite growing evidence to the contrary.

In this episode, Don and Steve tackle some of the most common claims healthcare professionals hear about constipation treatment—and explore what the research really says.

💩 Why does docusate remain so popular if the evidence is questionable?
⚠️ Should patients worry about becoming dependent on stimulant laxatives?
🧩 What's behind the PEG 3350 autism controversy?
🤰 Are magnesium-based laxatives really unsafe during pregnancy?

We’ll leave no stool unturned as we get to the bottom of these claims:

Oral docusate isn’t an effective laxative.
Chronic stimulant laxatives damage the gut.
PEG 3350 causes autism and behavioral changes in kids.
Magnesium-based laxatives aren’t safe to use in pregnancy.

🏷️ Our listeners can get 10% off a new or upgraded subscription with code rvt1026 at checkout.

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TRC Healthcare Editor Hosts:

Stephen Small, PharmD, BCPS, BCPPS, BCCCP, CNSC
Don Weinberger, PharmD, PMSP

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Guest:

Nina Pascua, MD, PharmD, MSCE, MBA

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CE Information:

None of the speakers have anything to disclose.

TRC Healthcare offers CE credit for this podcast for subscribers at our platinum level or higher. Log in to your Pharmacist’s Letter, Pharmacy Technician’s Letter,or Prescriber Insights account and look for the title of this podcast in the list of available CE courses.

Claim Credit

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The clinical resources mentioned during the podcast are part of a subscription to Pharmacist’s Letter, Pharmacy Technician’s Letter, and Prescriber Insights:

FAQ: Management of Constipation
Website: Eating Disorders (National Institutes of Health)
Toolbox: Resources for Discussing Medication Misinformation
Chart: GI Med Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

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