DEALING WITH CONSTIPATION Constipation is a fairly common side effect of clozapine treatment. In most people it’s usually mild; however, in some cases it can be serious if left untreated. If constipation does occur, Clopine® should not be stopped unless this has been discussed with the prescribing doctor. How is constipation identified? Some of the more obvious symptoms of constipation include: • Stomach pain or swelling • Bloating • Straining • Difficulty passing gas • Runny stools that may not feel ‘finished’ afterwards • Hard, dry stools However, sometimes constipation may not be obvious, or it can occur without the symptoms listed above, so it can be a good idea to keep a record of how often bowel movements are occurring. If there are any changes, please advise your doctor, nurse or case manager. It’s also important to advise if an iron or calcium supplement is being taken. How can constipation be prevented? Some simple things that can help to prevent constipation include: • Eating foods high in fibre, such as fruits and vegetables • Drinking plenty of water - aim to drink one glass before every meal • Exercising regularly - try going for a walk, or taking the stairs instead of a lift or escalator 11
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