Safety and efficacy of a bulk laxative containing senna versus lactulose in the treatment of chronic constipation in geriatric patients.

Abstract

Thirty geriatric long-stay patients aged 65-94 years (mean 81.8) participated in the trial the aim of which was to examine bulk laxative plus senna (Agiolax) in the treatment of chronic constipation using lactulose (Levolac) as a reference medicine. Bulk laxative plus senna (daily doses 14.8 g) produced more frequent (p < 0.05) bowel habits (4.5 vs. 2.2-1.9/week) than lactulose (daily doses 20.1 g). Both laxatives proved to be safe to use. Our study indicated bulk laxative plus senna to be more efficient in treating constipation in geriatric long-stay patients.

• Authors: O Kinnunen, I Winblad, P Koistinen, J Salokannel
• Journal: Pharmacology (Pharmacology) Vol. 47 Suppl 1 Pg. 253-5 (Oct 1993) ISSN: 0031-7012 [Print] Switzerland
• PMID: 8234438 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Comparative Study, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial)

Chemical References

• Cathartics
• Drug Combinations
• Plant Extracts
• Lactulose
• ispaghula, senna drug combination
• Senna Extract

Topics

• Aged
• Aged, 80 and over
• Cathartics (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Chronic Disease
• Constipation (drug therapy, physiopathology)
• Drug Combinations
• Female
• Gastric Emptying
• Gastrointestinal Motility
• Humans
• Lactulose (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Male
• Plant Extracts (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Plantago
• Senna Extract (adverse effects, therapeutic use)