Laxatives

Question 1

Classification (Laxative)

Answer 1

Stimulant laxatives
Saline
Bulk-forming
Lubricant
Sugar osmotic laxative
Suppository

Question 2

Stimulant laxative

Answer 2

MOA:
• All increase peristalsis through GI tract
• some also increase fluid and electrolyte absorption

-Adverse effect:
• Can cause water/electrolyte loss
• turn urine into red/brownish

-therapeutic effect
• Used for severe constipation that does respond to bulk and osmotic laxative
• Used to empty GI tract

Example:
Biscodyl
Senna

Question 3

Saline laxative

Answer 3

MOA:
•Increase osmotic pressure within the intestinal tract
• more water enters the intestine which results in bowl distention, increased peristalsis and evacuation
Example:
Phillips mom
Magnesium sulphate

Question 4

Bulk forming laxative

Answer 4

MOA: indigestible, hydrophilic colloids that absorb water forming emollient gel which distends the colon and promote peristalsis
Example: psyllium, PEG, methylcelluloss

Question 5

Lubricant laxatives

Answer 5

MOA: Oils lubricate the fecal material and intestinal wall, thereby promoting passage.
I.e mineral oil. ( liquid petroleum)

Question 6

Sugar osmotic laxative

Answer 6

Lactulose
Sorbitol

Question 7

Suppositories

Answer 7

Example:
Glycerin
Bisacodyl