Drug Use and Its Link to Constipation and Diarrhoea
Author Information
Author(s): Fosnes Gunvor S, Lydersen Stian, Farup Per G
Primary Institution: Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Hypothesis
This study aimed at finding associations between drugs and constipation and diarrhoea in a general population.
Conclusion
Use of drugs was associated with constipation and diarrhoea in the general population.
Supporting Evidence
- 62.5% of participants used one or more drugs.
- 13.8% of participants reported constipation.
- 8.8% of participants reported diarrhoea.
- Polypharmacy was an additional risk factor for diarrhoea.
- Furosemide, levothyroxine sodium, and ibuprofen were associated with constipation.
Takeaway
Taking certain medications can make you more likely to have constipation or diarrhoea.
Methodology
A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Oppland County, Norway, collecting data through questionnaires.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias due to lower response rates among certain demographics.
Limitations
The study's cross-sectional design limits causal inferences, and the low response rate may affect external validity.
Participant Demographics
Participants included individuals from Oppland County, Norway, with a mean age of 49.4 years and a gender distribution of 43.6% male.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.012 for constipation, 0.011 for diarrhoea
Confidence Interval
1.06 to 1.59 for constipation, 1.08 to 1.74 for diarrhoea
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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