Information AboutLaxative |
| CATEGORIES ABOUT LAXATIVE | |
| gastroenterology | |
| laxatives | |
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Laxatives are often abused by Bulimics or Anorexics . Laxative abuse is a problem that is potentially very serious since it can lead to problems such as Intestinal Paralysis , Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and Pancreatitis , among others. There are several types of laxatives, listed below. A type not listed is the combination laxative, which simply means that the laxative has more than one ingredient, with a combination of effects. Laxatives may be Oral or in Suppository form. It is interesting to note that, while there is no gender based medicine to ease Constipation , advertisers tend to promote some brands as being "More for a lady" than others. BULK-PRODUCING AGENTS
Also known as bulk-forming or bulking agents, these include husk ( Metamucil ), methylcellulose (Citrucel), polycarbophil, Apple s. They should be taken with plenty of water. Bulk-producing agents have the gentlest of effects among laxatives and can be taken just for maintaining regular bowel movements. STOOL SOFTENERS / SURFACTANTS
These cause water and fats to penetrate the stool, making it easier to move along. Many of these quickly produce a tolerance effect and so become ineffective with prolonged use. Their strength lies in between the fibers and the stimulants and can be used for patients with occasional Constipation or those with anorectal conditions in which passage of a firm stool is painful. Stool softeners include Docusate (Colace, Diocto). LUBRICANTS / EMOLLIENT
These simply make the stool slippery, so that it slides through the intestine more easily. An example is s (A, D, E and K). HYDRATING AGENTS (OSMOTICS) These cause the intestines to concentrate more water within, softening the stool. There are two principal types, saline and hyperosmotic. Examples: Milk Of Magnesia , Epsom Salt . Saline
Saline laxatives attract and retain water in the intestinal lumen increasing intraluminal pressure, thus softening the stool. They will also cause the release of , Magnesium hydroxide ( Milk Of Magnesia ), Magnesium sulphate, Monobasic sodium phosphate, Sodium biphosphate. Note: sulphate salts are considered the most potent. Hyperosmotic agents
Hyperosmotic laxatives include Glycerin Suppositories and Lactulose . Lactulose works by osmotic effect which retains water in the colon, lowering the PH and increasing colonic peristalsis. Lactulose is also indicated in Portal-systemic Encephalopathy . Glycerin suppositories work mostly by hyperosmotic action, but also the sodium stearate in the preparation causes local irritation to the colon. STIMULANT / IRRITANT
These stimulate may be preferred when more complete evacuation is required. Examples: Castor Oil
Castor Oil acts directly on intestinal mucosa or nerve plexus and alters water and electrolyte secretion. It is converted into ricinoleic acid (the active component) in the gut. REFERENCES |
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