Laxatives
- Increase stool water, propulsion or secretion
- Osmotic agents are common first-line drugs
- Stimulants increase colonic propulsion
- Secretagogues/prucalopride treat refractory CIC
- Bulk fiber requires adequate motility/fluids
- Match agent to constipation mechanism
Class at a glance
- Increase stool water, propulsion or secretion
Clinical role
- Osmotic agents are common first-line drugs
- Stimulants increase colonic propulsion
Other clinical roles
- Secretagogues/prucalopride treat refractory CIC
- Bulk fiber requires adequate motility/fluids
Clinical distinctions
- Match agent to constipation mechanism
Self-check
- What does bulk fiber require?
Adequate motility and fluids. - What should guide laxative selection?
Constipation mechanism.
Drugs in this class (16)
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