Calcium Polycarbophil in the Management of Fecal Incontinence
Tatsuya Abe *
Department of Proctology, Kunimoto Hospital, Asahikawa, Japan
Masao Kunimoto
Department of Proctology, Kunimoto Hospital, Asahikawa, Japan
Yoshikazu Hachiro
Department of Proctology, Kunimoto Hospital, Asahikawa, Japan
Yoshiaki Ebisawa
Department of Proctology, Kunimoto Hospital, Asahikawa, Japan.
Houhei Hishiyama
Department of Proctology, Kunimoto Hospital, Asahikawa, Japan.
Masanori Murakami
Department of Gastroenterology, Kunimoto Hospital, Asahikawa, Japan.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Few clinical studies have assessed the efficacy of calcium polycarbophil that is currently recommended as an ideal and initial bulk-forming agent in patients with fecal incontinence.
Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate the short-term outcomes of calcium polycarbophil administration to patients with fecal incontinence due to a range of etiologies.
Study Design: This was a retrospective review of a single-institution experience.
Methodology: In total, 223 patients treated with calcium polycarbophil were enrolled. Efficacy measures included changes in the Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score and the Bristol Stool Form Scale.
Results: Of the 223 patients who were enrolled, 195 were available for final analysis. Among the 195 patients, 15 (7.7%) experienced side effects; the most common side effects were constipation and hard stools. One month after the start of treatment, the mean Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score decreased significantly compared with baseline (11.2±4.0 vs. 5.7±5.0, P = < .001). The mean stool consistency decreased significantly, with patients reporting more formed stools by the Bristol Stool Form Scale at 1 month than at baseline (4.4±1.5 vs. 3.9±1.1, P = < .001).
Conclusions: Our findings suggest that monotherapy with calcium polycarbophil appears to be a safe and beneficial approach in the management of fecal incontinence.
Keywords: Fecal incontinence, calcium polycarbophil, pharmacotherapy, stool form scale.