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Related Experiment Videos

[Side effects of laxatives].

S Müller-Lissner1

  • 1Medizinische Klinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München.

Zeitschrift Fur Gastroenterologie
|June 1, 1992
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Most laxatives, including anthraquinones and diphenylmethane derivatives, are safe at recommended doses. Excessive use can cause electrolyte imbalances and other side effects, but severe "cathartic colon" is rare now.

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Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Pharmacology

Context:

  • Review of common laxative classes: anthraquinones, diphenylmethane derivatives (bisacodyl, sodium picosulphate), saline laxatives, lactulose, and cisapride.
  • Focus on safety profiles during normal use, pregnancy, and lactation.

Purpose:

  • To comprehensively discuss the side effects associated with various commonly used laxatives.
  • To differentiate between side effects from recommended dosages versus excessive use.
  • To assess the clinical relevance and historical incidence of severe laxative-induced conditions.

Summary:

  • Recommended doses of most discussed laxatives exhibit no significant side effects, including during pregnancy and lactation, with the exception of hypermagnesemia in renal insufficiency from magnesium cathartics.
  • Pseudo-melanosis coli, a pigmentary change, is associated mainly with anthraquinones and, to a lesser extent, diphenylmethane derivatives.

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  • Clinically significant adverse events, such as electrolyte disturbances (hypokalemia), metabolic alkalosis, and renal tubular dysfunction, are primarily linked to excessive laxative intake.

    • Impact:

    • Highlights the general safety of commonly prescribed laxatives when used appropriately.
    • Underscores the importance of correct dosing to avoid adverse effects like electrolyte imbalances.
    • Suggests that severe conditions like 'cathartic colon' are now infrequently reported, likely due to the discontinuation of older laxative formulations.