Can Providac Capsules Be Taken To Regularise Bowel Movements?

Posted on Thu, 20 Mar 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 20 Mar 2014 Answered on

Mon, 7 Apr 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I have some problem. Usually I go to the toilet 3 times a day, all in the morning timings only.Now a days I go very often, especially after lunch etc. I DO NOT HAVE DIAROHHEA. Can I take Providac capsules to regularise the system or any other medicines you suggest. I take medicines for Blood sugar, Blood pressure etc for the last more than 20 years. I am 76 years.

Answered by Dr. Divya Kuttikrishnan (1 hour later)

Brief Answer: ...... Detailed Answer: Hi there. Thanks for writing in.... Yes, you can take providac capsules which contain probiotics like lactobacillus. It helps in maintaining a good flora of the gut. In addition when you wake up, drink a glass of warm water. It will help in good bowel movements. Include a diet with plenty of fresh vegetables....like salads with some olive oil, steamed vegetables etc. Regular exercise 30 minutes a day 5 days a week.....will help in good digestion, control blood pressure, blood sugars. However if you still continue to pass motion numerous times ,do visit a gastroenterologist who might advise further investigations like colonoscopy. Hope this information was helpful to you. Do get back to me if you have further queries. Regards, Dr. Divya Kuttikrishnan

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Divya Kuttikrishnan (24 hours later)

I tried Providac many times, but it has not much effect. Instead can I take eldoper or any other medicine you suggest, daily for few days as per your advise. Thanks-XXXX

Answered by Dr. Divya Kuttikrishnan (15 hours later)

Brief Answer: .. Detailed Answer: Sorry for the delay in replying...... Lactobacillus ( Providac) is much safer to take. You can also include curd or butter milk in your diet. A glass of lime tea might also help reduce the number of motions/day. A teaspoon of Arrowroot powder dissolved in half a glass of drinking water. Then boil it for a couple of minutes. Let it cool and then drink it. might help. You can also maintain a food diary , to see any pattern...or if any particular food makes you go to the toilet often. Sometimes stress/anxiety can also trigger changes in bowel habits. Eldoper is generally given for loose stools. I don't think it is really warranted in your case. Blood sugar lowering medications like metformin has a side effect with regards to diarrhoea. That is also a possibility if you are on metformin. Hope my answer was helpful to you... Regards, Dr. Divya Kuttikrishnan

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Divya Kuttikrishnan (1 hour later)

Many thanks for your advise. What is the dosage of Providac I should take and for how many days. Thanks XXXX

Answered by Dr. Divya Kuttikrishnan (3 hours later)

Brief Answer: ... Detailed Answer: You can take providac one capsule 3 times a day for 5 days. In case you are still having repeated bowel movements...even after all the measures I had suggested in my earlier XXXXXXX I would advise you to consult a gastroenterologist who might advise certain investigations and colonoscopy if necessary. Have a great day :)

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar