Stimulant laxatives

Question 1

Stimulant laxatives - examples

Mclaren

Answer 1

senna

bisacodyl

glycerol suppositories

docusate sodium

Question 2

Stimulant laxatives - indication

Answer 2

constipation

faecal impaction - as suppositories

Question 3

Stimulant laxatives - MOA

NOTE: DONT NEED TO KNOW MOA OF LAXATIVES FOR EXAM

Answer 3

increase water and electrolyte secretion from the colon

this increases the volume of the colon content and stimulates peristalsis

Question 4

Stimulant laxatives - adverse effects

Answer 4

abdominal pain

cramping

diarrhoea

prolonged use = melanosis coli (reversible pigmentation of the intestinal wall)

Question 5

Stimulant laxatives - contraindications DO NOT USE in…

Answer 5

intestinal obstruction - risk of perforation

Question 6

Stimulant laxatives - Contraindicated in

&

AVOID in..

Answer 6

Contraindicated in:
Intestinal Obstruction

Avoid in:
Haemorrhoids

Anal fissures

Question 7

Stimulant laxatives - administration

Answer 7

usually administered orally

if treating faecal impaction = use glycerol suppositories

Question 8

Stimulant laxatives - communication

Answer 8

explain to patients that your are giving them a treatment that will help them pass their stool more easily

tell them to ensure they drink plenty of fluids - 6-8 glasses of water

explain that it does not work immediately - they need a few doses for it to take effect