-
Bulk-Forming:
Methycellulose [Citrucel]
- swells in water
- forms a viscous gel
- stimulates peristalsis
- (softens feces)
- Group III: soft-formed stool in 1-3 days
-
Surfactant:
Docusate Sodium [Colace]
- Group III: formed, soft stool in 1-3 days
- decreases surface tension of feces (detergent)
- water more able to enter feces
- water and electrolytes secreted into lumen
- (softens feces)
- (does not stimulate peristalsis)
-
Stimulant:
Bisacodyl [Dulcolax]
- Group II: semi-fluid stool in 6-12 hrs
- stimulates intestinal motility (peristalsis)
- increases water into lumen
-
Osmotic:
Magnesium Hydroxide [MOM]
- Group I (high dose): Rapid fluid evac in 2-6 hrs
- Group II (low dose): semifluid stool in 6-12 hrs
- poorly absorbed, draws water into lumen
- feces swells and stimulates peristalsis
-
Group I Laxatives
- Acts rapidly, within 2-6hrs
- Watery consistency to stool
- Useful for preparing bowel for diagnostic procedures or surgery
-
Group II Laxatives
- Intermediate latency (6-12 hrs)
- Semifluid stool
- Treat constipaton and prevent straining
-
Group III Laxatives
- Act slowly (1-3 days)
- Soft, formed stool
- Treats constipation and prevents straining
|
|
