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Laxative Types

evan Jan. 26, 2024
Laxative Type When to Use When to avoid Examples
Bulk-forming laxatives Diverticulitis, dietary fibre insufficiency   Ispaghula husk (Fybogel), Methylcellulose (Celevac)
Osmotic laxatives Opioid induced constipation   Lactulose (Duphalac), Macrogol (Movicol)
Stimulant laxatives   Diverticulitis Senna (Senokot), Bisacodyl (Dulcolax)
Surface-wetting When people can't increase fluid intake   Docusate sodium (DulcoEase)
Lubricant laxatives Haemorrhoids    Liquid Paraffin (Paraffinum perliquidum)
Prokinetic agents Chronic constipation, bowel disorders   Prucalopride (Resolor)

Movicol is first line for idiopathic constipation 

Do not prescribe laxatives if there is suspected: obstruction or perforation, paralytic ileus, colonic atony or faecal impaction, Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, toxic megacolin, severe dehydration (bisacodyl), galactosaemia (lactulose), history of peanut sensitivity (arachis oil enema).

Movicol has high sodium content, so consider in electrolyte imbalance. 

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