Laxatives (83)

Question 1

Constipation

Answer 1

Abnormally infrequent and difficult passage of feces through the lower GI tract

Question 2

Complications with constitution

Answer 2

-hemorrhoids
-anal fissure
-fecal impaction
-rectal prolapse
-lazy bowel

Question 3

Laxatives MOA

Answer 3

Bulk forming, osmotic, fecal softener, stimulant, enema, suppositories

Question 4

Never use laxatives if

Answer 4

You have a bowel obstruction

Question 5

Overuse or abuse of laxatives may lead to

Answer 5

Atomic colon and dependence

Question 6

Bulk forming

Answer 6

High fibre substances
-absorbs water present in lumen to increase bulk
-distends bowel to initiate reflex bowel activity

Question 7

Examples of bulk forming

Answer 7

Methyl cellulose

Question 8

Osmotic laxatives

Answer 8

Non absorbable compounds or salt solutions that draw water into intestinal lumen

Question 9

AE of osmotic laxatives

Answer 9

Can cause substantial water loss or dehydration

Question 10

Hyperosmotic compounds

Answer 10

Increase fecal water content
-bowel distension, inc peristalsis and evacuation

Question 11

Example of hyperosmotic compounds

Answer 11

Lactulose

Question 12

Salines

Answer 12

Increase osmotic pressure within the intestinal tract, causing more water to enter the intestines
-bowel distension, inc peristalsis and evacuation

Question 13

Example of saline

Answer 13

Magnesium hydroxide

Question 14

Low vs high doses of osmotic

Answer 14

Low: constipation
High: diagnostic or surgical preps

Question 15

Fecal softeners

Answer 15

Stool softeners and lubricants
-promote water and fat in stools
-lubricate fecal material and intestinal walls

Question 16

Example of fecal softeners

Answer 16

Docusate sodium

Question 17

Stimulant

Answer 17

Increases peristalsis via intestinal nerve stimulation
-inc fluid secretion into intestine

Question 18

Stimulant example

Answer 18

Senna

Question 19

Bulk forming laxatives should be taken with

Answer 19

240mL of water