I am constipated and bloated?

Question

I have been taking escitalopram 10 mg for 9 months and I still feel bloated. My bowel movements have changed and my stools are harder and always close to constipation. Is there anything I can do to reduce this side effect (ex: take a fiber supplement or probiotics?)

Naji-tom Samaha · Accepted Answer

Hello, thank you for your question! The best prevention solution is to increase your fiber intake by eating foods that contain a lot of fiber, such as brown rice, whole grain bread, fruits and vegetables, and drinking plenty of fluids to help make the stool softer. Fiber supplements like Metamucil can help if your diet is difficult to change, but you'll need to take it 3 hours before or after your medications, while making sure you drink plenty of fluids because taking it while not drinking enough can make constipation worse. For what you are describing, it is unlikely that probiotics will be helpful to you. Hopefully you have been helpful, please feel free if you have any other questions! Tom Samaha, Pharmacist