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contact laxatives in combination

A06AB20

Forms & Strengths

Oral tablets: Senna 8.6 mg + Docusate Sodium 50 mg
Oral capsules: Bisacodyl 5 mg + Docusate Sodium 100 mg
Oral liquid: Casanthranol 30 mg/15 mL + Mineral Oil emulsion

Adult Dosing

Senna/Docusate: 1-2 tablets orally once to twice daily
Bisacodyl/Docusate: 1-2 capsules orally daily as needed
Maximum duration of use: 1 week without medical supervision

Pediatric Dosing

Children < 6 years: Safety and efficacy not established
Children 6-12 years: Half the adult starting dose, as directed by a physician
Adolescents >= 12 years: Same as adult dosing

Indications

Short-term relief of occasional constipation
Prevention of opioid-induced constipation
Bowel evacuation prior to diagnostic or surgical procedures

Mechanism of Action

Stimulant laxative component (e.g., senna, bisacodyl) directly stimulates enteric nerves and colonic mucosa to increase peristalsis
Stool softener component (e.g., docusate) lowers surface tension, allowing water and fats to penetrate fecal material
Combined action accelerates intestinal transit and softens stool consistency

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to any active ingredient
Symptoms of appendicitis, acute surgical abdomen, or intestinal obstruction
Undiagnosed rectal bleeding or severe dehydration
Children under 6 years of age

Adverse Reactions

Abdominal cramping and colicky pain
Nausea and diarrhea
Electrolyte disturbances with chronic use (hypokalemia)
Melanosis coli with prolonged anthraquinone (senna) use

Drug Interactions

Cardiac glycosides (digoxin): Risk of toxicity if laxative-induced hypokalemia occurs
Diuretics: Increased risk of electrolyte depletion and dehydration
Oral medications: Decreased absorption due to accelerated gastrointestinal transit
Mineral oil: Combined use with stool softeners may increase systemic absorption of mineral oil

Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use