Go Ad-Free
logoThe People's Perspective on Medicine

Drugs That Cause Digestive Distress

Q. I suffered both flatulence and abdominal pain for more than three years to a degree of misery I’d like to forget. I had lots of tests for digestive problems but they showed no problem and my doctors could offer no help.

Eventually I figured out that my prescription medicine was causing the problem and stopped taking it, with my doctor’s permission. I am now pain free and no longer suffer from excessive gas.

A. Congratulations on superb problem solving. Many medications can cause stomach upset and flatulence. Some include osteoporosis drugs like Fosamax, cholesterol-lowering drugs like Tricor and even pain relievers such as naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn).

We have a more complete list, along with a discussion of treatments for flatulence, constipation and heartburn, in our Guide to Digestive Disorders.

Rate this article
star-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-empty
3.5- 8 ratings
About the Author
Terry Graedon, PhD, is a medical anthropologist and co-host of The People’s Pharmacy radio show, co-author of The People’s Pharmacy syndicated newspaper columns and numerous books, and co-founder of The People’s Pharmacy website. Terry taught in the Duke University School of Nursing and was an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Anthropology. She is a Fellow of the Society of Applied Anthropology. Terry is one of the country's leading authorities on the science behind folk remedies..
Tired of the ads on our website?

Now you can browse our website completely ad-free for just $5 / month. Stay up to date on breaking health news and support our work without the distraction of advertisements.

Browse our website ad-free
Join over 150,000 Subscribers at The People's Pharmacy

We're empowering you to make wise decisions about your own health, by providing you with essential health information about both medical and alternative treatment options.