Constipation and Piles Relief

The newest FDA-approved treatment for weight management and type 2 diabetes.

Includes tirzepatide, a medication that acts on two important hormones: GLP-1 and GIP.

This dual-action approach helps suppress appetite while also supporting better blood sugar regulation.

Intended to deliver improved results when used alongside lifestyle modifications.

Approved for weight management in adults who are overweight or obese.

Contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist medication.

Works by mimicking a natural hormone that influences the brain’s appetite regulation centers.

Supports reduced hunger and calorie consumption to encourage long-term weight loss.

Although oral and injectable weight loss medications can contain the same active ingredient (like semaglutide), their chemical formulations are specifically tailored to their method of delivery. Injectable medications are administered directly into the bloodstream, while oral medications must withstand the digestive process, resulting in different designs to maintain their effectiveness.

Key distinctions include:

• Injectables bypass the digestive tract, allowing for more efficient absorption; oral medications often require absorption enhancers.
• Oral tablets are formulated with protective coatings and carriers to withstand stomach acid.
• Injectables are often chemically more stable, especially for peptide-based drugs.
• Injectables generally allow for higher drug levels in the blood.
• Oral tablets contain more excipients (binders, coatings, etc.) than injectables.

Oral weight loss medications can be effective, but they don’t always function identically to injectable treatments. Even when containing the same active ingredient, oral medications are absorbed differently, which can slightly impact how much of the drug is available to work in the body.

That said, for many individuals, oral options offer a convenient and clinically effective alternative.

Key points:

• Oral medications may deliver lower drug levels into the bloodstream compared to injectables.
• Higher oral doses are often used to make up for reduced absorption.
• Clinical trials show that oral semaglutide (like Rybelsus) can produce weight loss comparable to injections in some individuals.
• For those who prefer to avoid injections, oral treatments provide an effective option when taken as directed and consistently.

Constipation is commonly caused by a low-fibre diet, dehydration, lack of physical activity, or delaying the urge to pass stool. Other factors include certain medications, stress, or underlying health conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Piles (Hemorrhoids) are often caused by prolonged straining during bowel movements, which puts pressure on the blood vessels in the rectum and anus. Chronic constipation, pregnancy, obesity, or prolonged sitting can increase the risk of developing piles.

Constipation is diagnosed based on symptoms, such as infrequent bowel movements (fewer than three per week), hard stools, or difficulty passing stool. In some cases, a healthcare provider may recommend further tests if constipation is chronic or severe.
Piles is diagnosed through a physical examination. For internal piles, a doctor may perform a digital rectal exam or use an instrument called an anoscope to examine the rectum.

Constipation:
- Increase fibre intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Drink plenty of water and engage in regular physical activity.
- Use over-the-counter laxatives or stool softeners for short-term relief (consult a healthcare provider if needed).

Piles:
- Use over-the-counter creams, ointments, or suppositories to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Apply cold compresses or warm sitz baths to soothe the area.
- For severe or persistent cases, medical interventions such as rubber band ligation or surgery may be required.

A high-fibre diet, adequate hydration, and regular exercise are key to preventing both constipation and piles. It is also important to respond promptly to the urge to pass stool and avoid straining during bowel movements. For those prone to piles, avoiding prolonged sitting and lifting heavy objects improperly can reduce strain on the rectal area. Maintaining a healthy weight and good hygiene further supports prevention.

Read more about Constipation and Piles on the NHS website, following the links below:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/constipation/

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/piles-haemorrhoids/