Laxatives

Polypharmacy guidance: realistic prescribing
Scottish Government Effective Prescribing & Therapeutics Division
Polypharmacy icon of two pills

Chapter 1: Gastrointestinal system

  • CAUTION: Vicious cycle of fluid loss > hypokalaemia > constipation
    • If >1 laxative, Do not stop abruptly. Reduce stimulant first and monitor effect
    • See advice here on non-pharmacological options