Final answer:
Psyllium hydrophilic mucilloid (Metamucil) is recommended for ongoing use to alleviate constipation, as it is a form of soluble fiber that promotes softer stools and natural bowel movements.
Step-by-step explanation:
For a patient experiencing occasional episodes of constipation without consistent relief from increased physical activity and dietary changes, a safe and effective pharmacologic intervention for ongoing use would be psyllium hydrophilic mucilloid (Metamucil). Psyllium is a form of soluble fiber that can help form soft, bulky stools, thereby alleviating constipation. It acts by absorbing water in the intestine to form a viscous liquid that promotes peristalsis and bowel motility. This option is usually recommended for ongoing use due to its gentleness and the fact that it mimics the natural mechanism of dietary fiber. Other options such as mineral oil enemas, bisacodyl (Dulcolax), and senna (Senokot) can be effective but are generally recommended for short-term use due to potential side effects or dependency with long-term use.