Question
I wanted to ask this question to a urologist since that is who prescribed me medication, but none were available to ask. The question is general enough however that I hope you can help me.
I was recently prescribed 500mg hydrocodone for kidney stones. I took the medication (not more than the instructed dosages or intervals) pretty much for 2 days straight. I became so constipated however that I could not use the bathroom for 5-6 days. When I did it, was so hard that I could see a little blood smeared onto the toilet paper. My urologist said that there was not much alternative. She prescribed me to a less strong medication, but did not have much confidence that it would help. As I read the instructions for this medicine I noticed that it had more acetaminophen in it than the hydrocodone (which someone told me was causing the constipation).  
My question is two parted: Is the acetaminophen causing the constipation? And are there any pain medications that may be less irritating to my stomach?
If anything, I needed stronger pain management than what the hydrocodone provided. I do not want to take a less power full drug that could possibly have worse side effects if, in fact, the acetaminophen causes more constipation and I will have to take more of it at a time.

Thank You

Answer
Dear Jacob

Kidney stones hurt badly, I know that because I had them myself.

The acetominophen should not be causing you to be constipated.  It is the narcotic portion of the pain meds that is causing you constipation.  Unfortunately there isn't really anything that can be done for that.  There is a laxative that is called Glycolax, which is prescribed by a doctor that might help.  It may take a few days, but it works.  You'll need to eat prunes, apricots, etc along with it.  

Any stronger medication that is narcotic will cause worse constipation.  I wish I could be the bearer of better news, but unfortunately I don't really have much else to offer you.  I know there are some experts on different boards who are pharmacists and may be able to give you more guidance.

Sharon Davis