Laxatives Study Guide PDF

STUDY GUIDE - PHARMACOLOGY LAXATIVES - primarily sued for constipation or hard stools that are difficult to pass. This is widely used for the following reasons: 1. Removal of toxic substances through the feces 2. Preparation for bowel procedures (e.g. colonoscopy) 3....

STUDY GUIDE - PHARMACOLOGY LAXATIVES - primarily sued for constipation or hard stools that are difficult to pass. This is widely used for the following reasons: 1. Removal of toxic substances through the feces 2. Preparation for bowel procedures (e.g. colonoscopy) 3. Prevention for straining in certain situations (e.g. surgery or myocardial infarction.) CAUSES OF CONSTIPATION Poor diet (requires adequate amount of fiber to add bulk to the stool and help maintain regular BM.) Dehydration Inactivity results to slow peristalsis Taking opioids and anticholinergics Pelvic floor dysfunction Common on pregnant women due to pressures int he colon and changes in hormone such as elevated progesterone level slows down the GI tract Iron supplements Endocrine disorders such as hypothyroidism and diabetes mellitus. TYPES OF LAXATIVES Onset of Adverse Type Action Generic Drug Action Effect Bulk forming adds bulks and increases psyllium, Onset of Esophageal laxative the size of the stool and methylcellulose action: 1- obstruction help soften it. polycarbophil 3 days may occur if not taken with It draws water into the sufficient colon, into the stool to amount of cause it to swell to help fluid. Usually stimulate peristalsis. taken for long- term use Stimulant Laxative highly potential for Bisacodyl Onset of May cause misuse. Senna action: 6- cramping and 12 hrs. diarrhea This directly stimulate the intestinal mucosa causing increase peristalsis and fluid secretion. Surfactant / It reduces surface tension Docusate salts Emollient of fluids which promotes Laxatives water absorption into the stool to help the clients  have a bowel movement without straining Glycerin(suppository), Excessive use Lactulose of laxative may It help increase water in Laxative salts e.g. lead to the stool by drawing water magnesium citrate, electrolyte Osmotic Laxatives from the colon. helping to Polyethylene glycol imbalance expand and soften the stool making it easier to Sodium phosphate and pass polyethylene glycol are used for bowel preparations before colonoscopy. Mineral oil It lubricates stool and intestinal wall, reducing Lubricant the water absorption by laxatives the intestine and creates a softer stool Glycerin Suppositories Techniques 1. 3 years old: left side lying (Sim's position) with knees flexed, use index finger to insertthe suppository against the rectal wall, allowing it to remain in contact with the rectal mucosa and not buried inside the stool. 2. Hold the buttocks together for several minutes or until the urge to defecate has passed to prevent immediate expulsion of suppository. If bowel movement occurs within 10-30 minutes, observe the presence of the suppository. Adverse Effects: Client Teaching Abdominal bloating and cramping due to Take laxatives with a full glass of water increased stool volume and peristalsis Avoid in clients with intestinal obstruction Electrolyte imbalance when in prolonged Implement non-pharmacologic measures for use constipation (e.g. increased fiber and fluid Nutrient malabsorption intake, regular exercise Dehydration Long term use ; May diminish defecatory Rectal irritation reflexes due to dependence to laxatives