Laxatives

Question 1

Name the 3 bulk forming laxatives

Answer 1

1. Bran
2. Methylcellulose
3. Ispaghula husk

Question 2

Name the 1 osmotic laxative

Answer 2

Macrogol

Question 3

Name the 4 stimulant laxatives

Answer 3

1. Senna
2. Bisacodyl
3. Danthron
4. Sodium picosulphate

Question 4

Name the 2 faecal softeners

Answer 4

1. Sodium docusate

2. Liquid paraffin

Question 5

How do bulk forming laxatives work

Answer 5

1. Increase volume of non-absorbable material in gut
2. Colon distention
3. Stimulates peristalsis

Question 6

How do osmotic laxatives work

Answer 6

1. Increase water content in bowel via osmosis
2. Colon distention
3. Stimulates peristalsis

Question 7

How do stimulant laxatives work

Answer 7

1. Increase water and electrolyte secretion by mucosa

2. Increase peristalsis

Question 8

Which laxative would you GIVE for opioid induced constipation

Answer 8

Stimulant

only give for short periods as may damage nerve plexus with long term use

Question 9

Which laxative would you AVOID in opioid induced constipation

Answer 9

Bulk forming laxative

Question 10

Which laxative is the most poorly tolerated

Answer 10

Osmotic laxative

Question 11

Which laxative would you GIVE for constipation related to poor diet

Answer 11

Bulk forming laxative