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Adverse effects of laxatives.

J H Xing¹, E E Soffer

¹Department of Gastroenterology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.

Diseases of the Colon and Rectum

|September 6, 2001

Summary

Most laxatives are safe for occasional use, but some can cause side effects. Polyethylene glycol is effective for chronic constipation, while danthron compounds should be avoided due to liver toxicity.

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Area of Science:

Gastroenterology
Pharmacology

Background:

Laxatives are widely used medications.
Judicious and intermittent use is generally safe, barring contraindications.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the safety and efficacy of commonly used laxatives.
To highlight potential adverse effects and contraindications.

Main Methods:

Review of existing literature on laxative pharmacology and clinical use.
Analysis of safety data, including adverse effects and potential long-term risks.

Main Results:

Bulking agents and lactulose generally have few serious adverse effects.
Osmotic laxatives (magnesium, phosphate) pose risks with renal impairment.
Polyethylene glycol shows promise for chronic constipation.
Stimulant laxatives lack established links to colonic neoplasia or structural damage in humans.
Danthron compounds exhibit hepatotoxicity and should be avoided.

Conclusions:

Most laxatives are safe when used appropriately.
Polyethylene glycol is a safe and effective option for chronic constipation.
Danthron compounds should be avoided due to significant safety concerns.

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