Laxatives and Cathartics Flashcards
Constipation: definition
Decreased or difficult passage of stool
Obstipation: definition
Severe constipation with NO passage of still
Laxative: definition
Eases defecation
Cathartic: definition
Induces defecation
Laxatives/Cathartics: safety, cautions (2)
Bulk forming laxatives are safer than stimulant laxatives/cathartics
Both can worsen dehydration and cause electrolyte imbalances
Lactulose: type of drug, effect, uses (2)
Osmotic laxative - a sugar that can’t be absorbed by small intestine
Laxative
Treat hepatic encephalopathy - bind to ammonia and reduces absorption in GI tract
Polyethylene Glycol: brand name, type of drug, use
Miralax
Osmotic laxative
Geriatric cats with chronic recurring constipation
“Saline” Enemas: caution
Not NaCl!
Can cause potentially fatal hyperphosphatemia
Do not use any OTC enemas without direct DVM supervision
Psyllium: brand name, type of drug, effect, use
Metamucil
Bulk forming laxative
Absorbed water –> softened feces and stimulates peristalsis
Manage chronic constipation in SA and horses, onset too long for acute cases
Docusate/DDS: type of drug, use, administration
Stool softener
Laxative for SA and horses
PO or per rectum as an enema
Mineral Oil: type of drug, use, administration, caution (2)
Stool softener
Laxative for horses and ruminants
PO via intubation only
High risk of aspiration unless intubated
Not used in SA
Petrolatum: type of drug, uses (2), effectiveness (2)
Stool softener
Laxative for SA
OTC hairball remedy
Not effective at moving hair through GI tract
Better laxatives for chronic, reoccurring constipation
Sorbitol: type of drug, use, formulation
Osmotic cathartic
Part of decontamination protocol when rapid GI elimination is needed
Formulated with activated charcoal, double check label
Bisacodyl: type of drug, effect, availability, caution
Stimulant cathartic
Irritates intestinal mucosa
Available OTC
Enteric coated tablets, do not cut/crush!
