Laxative overdose how many

And health care providers should be leery of giving oral doses of the products to kids 5 and younger. Enema versions of the drugs should never be given to children younger than 2, the FDA said.

IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser. Politics Covid U. Taken rectally, these suppositories soften stool and trigger rhythmic contractions of the intestinal muscles. Popular brands of suppositories include:.

Among other medications, laxatives can interact with certain heart medications, antibiotics, and bone medications. This information is often on the label. If laxative use results in diarrhea, your body can become dehydrated. Diarrhea can also lead to electrolyte imbalance. Talk with your doctor before using any laxative. Overuse of laxatives other than bulk formers can result in the intestines losing muscle and nerve response, which can lead to dependency on laxatives to have a bowel movement.

When you have constipation and are using laxatives, make an appointment to see your doctor if you experience unexplained changes in bowel pattern or constipation lasting longer than seven days even with using a laxative. To help treat constipation and avoid it in the future, consider making these dietary and lifestyle changes:.

For the treatment of occasional constipation, you have a choice of a number of safe, effective OTC laxatives.

If you decide to use one, read the label directions carefully and only use it as directed. If you have chronic constipation, see your doctor.

They can tailor a plan of medication, diet, and lifestyle changes to help you treat and avoid future problems with bowel movements. Laxatives can help relieve constipation and promote regular bowel movements. Learn more about natural laxatives. Many people think laxatives can help them lose weight quickly. However, there are serious concerns over their safety and effectiveness. Bulk-forming laxatives such as Metamucil and FiberCon may help you find relief from constipation.

Health Topics. Healthy Living. Common Procedures. Current Medical News Dovemed Blog. Health Information Health Topics. What is Laxative Overdose?

Laxative is a substance used to prevent or help provide relief from constipation, when it is difficult to empty the bowels. Many laxatives are taken orally, while some are inserted into the rectum There are many forms of laxative and these include bulk-forming laxative, lubricant laxative, hyperosmotic laxative, saline laxative, and stimulant laxative Emollient laxatives are known as stool-softeners and they help in softening the stool.

These are used to avoid straining the bowel while passing stool Laxative Overdose is the accidental or intentional intake of laxatives in dosage higher than prescribed values. Laxative Overdose is caused by the intake of drugs or products used as laxatives in dosage that is higher than prescribed This intake could be accidental, or in some cases intentional, to bring self-harm Since, a wide variety of substances and medications are available as laxatives, the severity of the symptoms depend upon the type of laxative consumed A wide variety of drugs and products are used as laxatives some of which include Bisacodyl Dulcolax , Cascara Sagrada, castor oil, Docusate Colace , Docusate and phenolphthalein Correctol , glycerin suppositories, lactulose Duphalac , magnesium citrate, malt soup extract Maltsupex , methylcellulose, milk of magnesia, mineral oil, phenolphthalein Ex-Lax , Psyllium, and Senna Note: The drug can interact with other prescribed or non-prescribed medications in the body.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Laxative Overdose? The common signs and symptoms noted include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Abdominal cramps Additionally, specific laxatives may cause specific signs and symptoms, which may include: Cascara Sagrada and Senna: Blood in stools, severe weakness and collapse Castor oil: Irritation of the GI tract Magnesium-based laxatives: Irritation of the GI tract Severe and watery diarrhea Reduced blood pressure hypotension Flushed skin Weak muscles, lethargy Urination and bowel movement difficulties Breathing difficulties Collapse Coma Methylcellulose and related products, polycarbophil, and Psyllium may cause obstruction of the intestines, or even choking Mineral oil: Aspiration pneumonia stomach contents are aspirated into the lungs Phenolphthalein: Reduced blood sugar hypoglycemia Reduced blood pressure hypotension Skin rashes Collapse Sodium phosphate: Weak muscles and collapse How is First Aid administered for Laxative Overdose?

First aid for Laxative Overdose is administered by healthcare professionals. The individual who overdosed, or someone near, should call for emergency assistance or the local emergency number They should also call the poison control center at or the local poison control center and follow instructions What is the Prognosis of Laxative Overdose? The prognosis of Laxative Overdose is dependent on the type and amount of laxative consumed, time between overdose and treatment, severity of the presenting symptoms, as well as general health status of the patient Individuals affected for the first time by an overdose, generally recover faster with adequate treatment, and no complications are observed Individuals, who chronically abuse laxatives may take longer to recover.

In such cases, symptoms including dehydration causing severe fluid and electrolyte loss can occur. They may also lose control of their bowel muscles Overdosing on magnesium-based laxatives may result in severe symptoms that affect the heart rhythms and electrolyte balance in the body.

In such cases, the prognosis depends upon proper and prompt treatment In general, overdoses are common situations in the emergency departments. How can Laxative Overdose be Prevented?

Laxative Overdose can be prevented by: Always taking the right dose of medication at recommended times Always follow instructions for usage of any health product Talking to your healthcare provider, if recommended dose of laxative does not provide adequate relief Refrain from self-medication Keeping medications out of reach of children in child-proof containers For older individuals and those who tend to be forgetful, medications should be stored in single dose containers with time labels, to avoid multiple dosage Monitor intake of this drug especially in patients, who have depression or harbor suicidal thoughts and behavior It is important to give your healthcare provider a complete list of prescription and non-prescription medications that are being currently taken.