Laxatives
Gastrointestinal pharmacology MRCEM primary
| Type | Examples | Mechanism | Caution with... |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bulk-forming | fybogel, isaphagula husk | Adds bulk to stool, softens it | |
| Osmotic | Lactulose, glycerol suppository, phosphate enema | ↓ water absorbed by intestines | |
| Stimulants | Bisacodyl, senna | Speeds up bowel movements | ↑ uterine movements |
| Iso-osmotic | Movicol | Traps fluid in bowel - requires ↑ fluid intake | Limiting sodium intake e.g. CCF |
| Stool softener | Docusate, microlette enema (also contains glycerol) | Increases water + lipid content in stool | |