GI: LAXATIVES, STIMULANT

Question 1

LAXATIVES, STIMULANT: INDICATIONS

Answer 1

• Constipation

- Faecal Impaction

Question 2

LAXATIVES, STIMULANT: MOA

Answer 2

• Laxatives increase water and electrolyte secretion from the colonic mucosa
• increasing volume of colonic content and stimulating peristalsis
• DIRECT PRO-PERISTALTIC ACTION = exact mechanism differs between agents
• BACTERIAL METABOLISM OF SENNA = produces metabolites that have a direct action on the enteric nervous system => STIMULATE PERISTALSIS
• Rectal admin of stimulant laxatives (such as glycerol suppositories -> similar but more localised effort can be used to tx faecal impaction
• Docusate sodium = both stimulant and faecal softening actions

Question 3

LAXATIVES, STIMULANT: ADVERSE EFFECTS

Answer 3

• Abdominal pains
• Cramping
• Diarrhoea
• Prolonged Use - Melanosis Coli

Question 4

LAXATIVES, STIMULANT: WARNINGS

Answer 4

• Intestinal obstruction => Induce perforation

- Rectal Preps avoided = Haemorrhoids, Anal Fissure

Question 5

LAXATIVES, STIMULANT: INTERACTIONS

Answer 5

• No known effects

Question 6

LAXATIVES, STIMULANT: EXAMPLES

Answer 6

• Senna
• Bisacodyl
• Glycerol Suppositories
• Docusate Sodium