Drugs for Constipation Flashcards
Drugs that cause constipation
analgesics opiates CCBs 5HT3 antagonists iron supplement aluminum (Sucrafate) anticholinergics
Drug class:
Psyllium (Metamucil)
Methylcellulose
Bulk laxatives
Bulk Laxative (Metamucil) MOA
non-soluble vegetable fibers or cellulose derivatives absorb water and increase fecal mass/bulk/softness and frequency
Bulk laxatives (Metamucil) side effects
flatulence and bloating
take it with lots o liquids
What kind of drug is Docusate (Colace)?
Emollient
How does Colace work?
it lowers the surface tension of the stool, allowing water to more easily enter and mix–> softening it
Colace side effect
abdominal cramps
may have sugar in it so monitor DM
Mineral Oil (lubricant), how does it work?
coat the stools and prevent absorption of fecal water in the colon. stools remain softer and pass more easily
Who gets mineral oil lubricants?
used for constipation in patients who need to avoid straining themselves, like in post-op
Downside of mineral oils
they prevent absorption of other nutrients (ADEK) water and drugs (coumadin) in the gut
Name the drug class: Polyethylene glycol (Miralax) Lactulose Sorbitol Magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia) Magnesium citrate Sodium phosphate
Osmolar agents
How does Miralax (polyethylene glycol) work?
draws water into the colon and stool
can use for long term constipation or bowel prep
Miralax side effects
bloating, cramping, flatulence
Risk of taking saline “salts” (Mg citrate, Mg hydroxide, sodium phos)
acute phosphate nephropathy
electrolyte imbalances
DO NOT USE in heart or renal failure
How do saline “salts” work?
Well theyre salts so they draw water into the colon and stool. used in rapid bowel prep
