Laxatives - Bulk forming

Question 1

What are common indications for bulk-forming laxatives?

Answer 1

• Constipation and faecal impaction, particularly in patients who can’t increase their dietary fibre intake
• Mild chornic diarrhoea associated with diverticular disease/IBS

Question 2

What is the mechanism of action of bulk-forming laxatives?

Answer 2

Contain hydrophilic substance - such as polysaccharides or cellulose, which is not absorbed or broken down in the gut. This attracts water into the stool and increases its mass. This stimulates peristalsis and helps relieve constipation

Question 3

Why is it important to make sure someone has adequate fluid intake when taking bulk forming laxatives?

Answer 3

Due to ability of laxative to pull water into the gut lumen

Question 4

What are examples of bulk-forming laxatives?

Answer 4

• Isphagula husk
• Methylcellulose
• Sterculia

Question 5

What can bulk-forming laxatives be particularly useful for treating?

Answer 5

• IBS
• Diverticular disease
• Managing stoma output

Question 6

What are important adverse side effects of bulk-forming laxatives?

Answer 6

• Mild abdo distention
• Flatulence
• Faecal impaction
• GI obstruction

Question 7

When should bulk-forming laxatives be avoided?

Answer 7

• Ileus
• Faecal impaction
• Intestinal obstruction

Question 8

When should you prescribe bulk forming laxatives?

Answer 8

Around meal time