Laxatives

Question 1

Osmotic laxatives examples

Answer 1

Lactulose and Macrogol (i.e. movicol)

Question 2

Stimulant laxative examples

Answer 2

Docusate
Senna

Question 3

How does Docusate work?

Answer 3

Stimulant laxative and is a stool softener

Question 4

How do osmotic laxatives work?

Answer 4

Increase the amount of water in the large bowel, drawing liquid from the body into the bowel

Question 5

Which laxative is used most commonly in Opioid induced constipation?

Answer 5

an osmotic laxative e.g. lactulose (or docusate sodium to soften the stools) and a stimulant laxative is recommended. Bulk-forming laxatives should be avoided.

Question 6

Bulk forming laxatives examples

Answer 6

Isphaghula husk
Methylcellulose
Sterculia

Question 7

When are bulk forming laxatives preferred in treatment?

Answer 7

in adults with small hard stools if fibre cannot be increased in the diet. Adequate fluid intake advised to avoid intestinal obstruction