Laxatives Flashcards
1
Q
Stool softener
A
Sodium docusate - particularly effective for faecal impaction
2
Q
Bulking agent
A
Ispaghula husk - often first line but need adequate fluid intake, takes a few days to work
3
Q
Stimulant
A
Senna Bisacodyl CI in obstruction, acute abdomen (cause unknown) Can cause cramps Excessive use can cause hypokalaemia
4
Q
Osmotic
A
Macrogols e.g. laxido, movicol
CI in obstruction, ileus, perforation
Can cause bloating
5
Q
Faecal impaction
A
1st line = macrogol AND/OR senna
2nd line = suppository
6
Q
Opioid induced constipation
A
1st line = senna AND macrogol
7
Q
Drugs which cause constipation
A
Opioids Anticholinergics e.g. TCAs, SSRIs, antipsychotics, antihistamines Iron salts Calcium salts CCBs esp. verapamil Ondansetron
