CASE STUDY: Mr. A is an 84-year-old man who asks you about his constipation. On discussion with him you establish that he has recently been experiencing back pain, which prevents him from getting about as much as he used to. The physician ordered magnesium hydroxide, and things are starting to improve. After a week, Mr. A calls the physician and asks if there is pill, he could take because the medicine tastes terrible. Mr. A's home medications: diltiazem for HTN and tramadol PRN for his back pain
1. Why do you think Mr. A may have constipation?
2. What sort of laxative is Mr. A taking? Explain why this would be effective.
3. What pill would you recommend and why?