drugs in constipation

Question 1

What are FOUR types of laxatives?

Answer 1

osmotic
bulk forming
stimulant
stool softeneer

Question 2

What groups of people should not be prescribed stimulant laxative

Answer 2

intestinal obstruction
co-danthramer and co-danthrusate should be avoided in all patients except terminally ill patients due to risk of carcinogenicity and genotonxicity

Question 3

what are examples of stool softeners and what are side effects?

Answer 3

glycerol, docusate sodium, liquid paraffin

enemas containing arachis oil (peanut oil) avoided in peanut allergy

liquid paraffin can cause anal seepage and risk of GI disease and pneumonia

Question 4

how quickly does stimulant laxatives work?

Answer 4

8-12 hours

Question 5

important advise to give to patient starting bulk forming?

Answer 5

do not take before bed

maintain adequate water intake to avoid obstruction

Question 6

WHAT ARE RED FLAGS OF CONSTIPATION?

Answer 6

New onset constipation, especially in patients over 50 years of age, or accompanying symptoms such as anaemia, abdominal pain, weight loss, or overt or occult blood in the stool should provoke urgent investigation because of the risk of malignancy or other serious bowel disorder