see also:

• constipation

• see under Mx of constipation

• docusate
  • 240mg (2 x 120mg tablets) daily
  • takes 1-3 days to work
  • can be used in pregnancy

• useful if there is a dietary fibre deficiency
• onset is usually by 24 hours, with peak action at 2-3 days following dosing
• Ispaghula
  • 1 sachet or teaspoon in water
• Psyllium
  • as directed on packet, 1- 3 times a day
  • can be used in pregnancy
• Sterculia
  • 1–2 teaspoons 1–2/day

• lactulose (Duphalac)
  • 15-30ml once or twice a day
  • takes 1-2 days to work
  • can be used in pregnancy
• other agents

• avoid long term use as they may induce melanosis coli, tolerance or cathartic colon and there is little evidence for their efficacy.
• not proven to be safe in pregnancy
• Bisacodyl
  • 1–2 x 5 mg tablets daily
  • works in 6-12hrs
  • can be used in pregnancy
• sennosides
  • works in 6-12hrs