"Duolax

Description

Indication

Constipation

Administration

The dose may be mixed with milk or half a glass of water if desired.

Adult Dose

Oral Adults: Constipation The recommended oral dose are as follows- 15-30ml before breakfast and/or at bedtime. Up to 45 mL/day. Max duration: 1 wk.

Child Dose

Oral Children: Constipation Over 7 years: 7.5ml-15ml at bedtime. 3-7 years: 5-10ml at bedtime.

Contraindication

Renal failure, existing electrolyte imbalance, appendicitis symptoms, acute surgical abdomen, myocardial damage, heart block, fecal impaction, rectal fissures, intestinal obstruction or perforation, pregnant, bedridden, dysphagia

Mode of Action

Paraffin: When taken orally: penetrates and softens faecal material. Magnesium hydroxide increases peristaltic activity causing osmotic retention of fluids, thus resulting in bowel evacuation. It also reduces stomach acid by reacting with hydrochloric acid to form Mg chloride.

Precaution

Oral: not recommended for use in patients with difficulty swallowing or impaired neurodevelopment. Avoid prolonged use as a laxative or faecal softener.

Side Effect

Anal irritation (excessive dose) and seepage. Foreign-body granulomatous reactions; vasospasm; lipoid pneumonia; interference with absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Hypotension, electrolyte imbalance, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting may present.

Interaction

May impair absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and possibly other compounds.