BIOL 3051 Chapter Notes - Chapter 6.4: Laxative, Magnesium Citrate, Opioid Receptor
24 Apr 2020
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In terms of efficacy, all drugs (osmotic, bulk-forming, stimulants) have shown to improve or manage constipation to varying degrees except for stool softeners which have no evidence that supports it use. Bulk-forming agents (psyllium, methylcellulose) have indicated they are not much more effective compared to placebo. Bulk-forming are dieter fibre supplements that used for prophylaxis. These agents must be taken with water as they may swell and block the esophagus. Other agents should be taken two hours before or after medication. Peg is more effective than lactulose in chronic cases resulting in greater improvements in stool frequency form and relief of abdominal pain. Bulk-forming, stool softeners, lubricants, stimulations and most osmotic agents, except for magnesium citrate and sodium phosphate are cheap. Prucalopride and mu-opioid receptor antagonist are expensive, thus are reserve for patients with special cases or those who have failed with the affordable alternatives.
