1. Chapter 74
Laxatives

2. Laxatives Used to ease or stimulate defecation – Soften the stool
– Increase stool volume
– Hasten fecal passage through the intestine
– Facilitate evacuation from the rectum

3. Indications for Laxative Use
Constipation is determined by stool consistency and frequency of defecation
Indications
Diagnosis
Treatment/procedure preparation
Constipation
Poisoning

4. Classification of Laxatives
Bulk-forming laxatives
Psyllium (Metamucil)
Surfactant laxatives
Docusate sodium (Colace)
Stimulant laxatives
Bisacodyl (Dulcolax)
Osmotic laxatives
Milk of magnesia (MOM)