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Laxative overdose





Laxative overdose

Alternative Names:

Laxative abuse
Symptoms:

Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, diarrhea, are most common. Dehydration and electrolyteproblems are more common in children than adults. Below are symptoms specific to the actual product.

Bisacodyl:

  • Electrolyte imbalance
  • Cramps
  • Diarrhea

Senna; Cascara sagrada:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Collapse
  • Diarrhea
  • Bloody stool

Phenolphthalein:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Collapse
  • Low blood sugar
  • Dizziness
  • Rash
  • Diarrhea
  • Drop in blood pressure


Sodium phosphate:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Collapse
  • Muscle weakness
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea

Magnesium-containing products:

  • Collapse
  • Painful urination
  • Flushing
  • Thirst
  • Coma
  • Muscle weakness
  • Slow respirations
  • Gastrointestinalirritation
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Painful bowel movements
  • Diarrhea (watery)
  • Drop in blood pressure
  • Death

Castor oil can cause gastrointestinalirritation.

Mineral oil can cause aspiration pneumonia, a condition where vomited stomach contents are inhaled.

Methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, polycarbophil, or psyllium may cause choking or intestinal obstruction if taken with insufficient fluids.


References:

Ford MD,Clinical Toxicology. 1st ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2001: 332-333.

Feldman M, Friedman LS, Sleisenger MH, eds. Sleisenger & Fordtran?s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2002:149.




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