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A - MSRA Drugs [4] > Laxatives > Flashcards

Flashcards in Laxatives Deck (19)
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1
Q

What are the main types of laxative?

A
  • Stimulant
  • Bulk-forming
  • Osmotic
2
Q

Give two examples of stimulant laxatives

A
  • Senna

- Bisacodyl

3
Q

How do stimulant laxatives work?

A

Increase the volume of stool in the colon and stimulate peristalsis

4
Q

Give two examples of bulk-forming laxatives

A
  • Isphagula husk

- Methylcellulose

5
Q

How do bulk-forming laxatives work?

A

Increase the stool volume which makes it easier to pass

6
Q

Give two examples of osmotic laxatives

A
  • Lactulose

- Macrogol

7
Q

How do osmotic laxatives work?

A

Increase the amount of water in the large bowel

8
Q

How can laxatives be administered?

A
  • PO

- PR

9
Q

When should PR laxatives be avoided?

A

When haemorrhoids or anal fissures are present

10
Q

What are the indications of laxatives?

A
  • Constipation

- Bowel preparation

11
Q

How should patients on laxatives be monitored?

A
  • Ask about symptoms

- Stool chart in hospital

12
Q

What are the common side-effects of laxatives?

A
  • Diarrhoea
  • Abdominal discomfort
  • Nausea and vomiting
13
Q

What are the less common side-effects of laxatives?

A

Prolonged use of stimulants can cause atonic non-functioning colon and hypokalaemia

14
Q

What counselling should be given to patients on laxatives?

A
  • Reason for use and mode of action
  • Need for compliance
  • Frequency of defecation
  • Hydration
  • Storage
15
Q

When is compliance with laxatives particularly important?

A

When using as a bowel preparation for surgery and colonoscopy

16
Q

How much should patients drink when on laxatives?

A

6-8 glasses of water a day

17
Q

How should bulk forming laxatives be stored?

A

In a dry environment

18
Q

When should laxatives be used with caution?

A
  • Intestinal obstruction
19
Q

When should you avoid using osmotic laxatives?

A
  • Fluid overload

- Electrolyte disturbances