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In medicine, a cathartic is a substance that accelerates defecation. This is similar to a laxative, which is a substance that eases defecation, usually by softening feces. [1] It is possible for a substance to be both a laxative and a cathartic. However, agents such as psyllium seed husks increase the bulk of the feces. [2] [3]
Laxatives, purgatives, or aperients are substances that loosen stools [1] and increase bowel movements. They are used to treat and prevent constipation . Laxatives vary as to how they work and the side effects they may have.
Catharsis is from the Ancient Greek word κάθαρσις, katharsis, meaning "purification" or "cleansing", commonly used to refer to the purification and purgation of thoughts and emotions by way of expressing them. The desired result is an emotional state of renewal and restoration.
Lactulose is a non-absorbable sugar used in the treatment of constipation and hepatic encephalopathy. [3] [4] It is administered orally for constipation, and either orally or rectally for hepatic encephalopathy. [3] It generally begins working after 8–12 hours, but may take up to 2 days to improve constipation. [1] [2]
Whole bowel irrigation is sometimes used prior to colonoscopy, bowel surgery, other abdominal/pelvic surgery, or a barium enema examination, to cleanse the intestines, enhancing visibility of the intestines' inner surfaces, preventing complications from occurring as a result of spillage of bowel contents into the abdominal cavity, and potentially providing other benefits depending on the type ...
Laxatives work in many different ways depending on what type of laxative they are. Some laxatives require a prescription, while others can be over-the-counter. There are many different types of ...
In simple terms, wine is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented grape juice. However, what ends up in the bottle is the result of many variables, including the grape or blend used and the ...
In addition to pharmacological effects, rectal administration has some properties which can be advantageous for the use in medicine. Rectal administration can allow patients to remain in the home setting when the oral route is compromised.