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ALIMENTARY TRACT AND METABOLISM › DRUGS FOR CONSTIPATION › DRUGS FOR CONSTIPATION › Osmotically acting laxatives
sodium sulfate
A06AD13
Forms & Strengths
- Oral solution: sodium sulfate 17.5 g, potassium chloride 3.13 g, magnesium sulfate 1.6 g per 177 mL
Adult Dosing
- Colonoscopy preparation: Two-dose split regimen. Dose 1: One bottle evening before procedure, followed by 16 oz water over 1 hour. Dose 2: Second bottle morning of procedure (10-12 hours later), followed by 16 oz water over 1 hour, completed at least 2 hours prior to colonoscopy.
Pediatric Dosing
- Safety and efficacy not established in pediatric patients < 16 years of age
Indications
- Cleansing of the colon as a preparation for colonoscopy in adults
Mechanism of Action
- Osmotic action of sulfate salts retains water in the intestinal lumen, causing water retention, distention, and diarrhea, leading to rapid evacuation of the colon.
Contraindications
- Gastrointestinal obstruction or ileus
- Bowel perforation
- Toxic colitis or toxic megacolon
- Gastric retention
- Hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation
Adverse Reactions
- Overall discomfort
- Abdominal distention
- Hyperuricemia
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Sleep disorder
- Electrolyte disturbances (hypokalemia, hyponatremia)
Drug Interactions
- Drugs that increase risk of fluid and electrolyte disturbances (diuretics, ACE inhibitors, ARBs)
- Oral medications taken within 1 hour of starting each dose may be flushed from the GI tract and not absorbed
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use