Laxatives for constipation

For patients with severe constipation, they can take antidotes for treatment. There are many antidotes for this purpose, including bulk laxatives, which are also called plant-based laxatives. They are mainly pectin, agar, or methylcellulose, etc. There are also stimulant laxatives, the representative of which is senna leaves. There are also lubricating laxatives, such as enema, etc. When using laxatives, be sure to follow the doctor's advice.

Laxatives for constipation

The first type is bulk laxatives

Also known as plant-based laxatives, including methylcellulose, agar, pectin, etc. This type of laxative is not absorbed by the intestinal wall. It swells after absorbing water in the intestine, expanding the intestinal volume and causing a defecation reflex. It can also mix with feces and soften the feces. This type of drug does not work quickly, but it is economical, has few adverse reactions, and can be used by people with constipation. These drugs cannot increase colonic tone and are therefore not suitable for patients with colonic weakness and poor intestinal motility.

It is often used after bulk-forming laxatives have failed. Representative drugs include senna leaves, rhubarb, phenolphthalein (fruit laxative tablets), bisacodyl (bisacodyl), castor oil, etc. This type of drug itself or its metabolites can stimulate the intestinal wall, increase intestinal peristalsis, and promote defecation. It is characterized by fast and strong laxative effect. It is used preferentially by those with impacted stool and those who need a quick bowel movement. However, because most of them contain anthraquinones, long-term use can cause drug dependence, colon lesions, and even induce intestinal polyps. Therefore, they should not be used for more than one week and are prohibited for use by pregnant and lactating women. Among them, rhubarb and fruit laxative tablets have a slower effect and should be used before going to bed. Rhubarb can easily damage the spleen and stomach, and is not suitable for patients with constipation caused by weak Qi and blood.

Representative drugs include enema, liquid paraffin, and sodium dococel. This type of medicine has the effect of moistening and softening stool, can help people with constipation to defecate easily and prevent excessive straining. It is suitable for patients with hemorrhoids, anal fissures, postoperative patients, patients with a history of hypertension and those who are bedridden for a long time. This type of drug takes effect quickly, but the action duration is short. There is a burning sensation when used rectally, and long-term use will affect the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and calcium and phosphorus, so it is not suitable for long-term use. Moreover, after the rectum is frequently stimulated by enema, its sensitivity will decrease, making defecation more difficult. The last category is osmotic laxatives.

Representative drugs include magnesium sulfate (saline laxative), lactulose, mannitol, sorbitol and polyethylene glycol (fosun). This type of drug is slowly absorbed in the intestine, so it can maintain a high osmotic pressure in the intestinal cavity, preventing the absorption of salt and water in the intestine, thereby expanding the intestinal cavity and stimulating intestinal peristalsis. Large doses and long-term use of this type of drug can cause water and electrolyte imbalance and alternating diarrhea and constipation, so it is better to use it in small doses. Among them, magnesium sulfate is generally used to expel parasites and eliminate intestinal toxins. Lactulose should be used with caution in patients with diabetes to avoid affecting blood sugar levels.