Guttalax Oral Drops: Effective Relief for Constipation
Guttalax oral drops provide gentle and reliable relief from constipation. This safe and effective laxative contains sodium picosulfate, a contact laxative that works directly in the colon to stimulate bowel movements.
What is Guttalax?
Guttalax is a solution containing sodium picosulfate 7.5 mg/ml. It’s a clear, slightly viscous liquid that may range in color from colorless to yellowish or slightly yellowish brown. Guttalax is categorized as a contact laxative and falls under the pharmacotherapeutic group A06AB08.
How Does Guttalax Work?
Sodium picosulfate, the active ingredient in Guttalax, is metabolized by gut bacteria in the colon, stimulating peristalsis (muscle contractions that move stool through the intestines). This action encourages the accumulation of water and electrolytes in the colon, softening the stool and promoting easier defecation.
Guttalax works specifically in the large intestine, leaving the absorption of essential nutrients in the small intestine undisturbed.
Who Can Benefit from Guttalax?
Guttalax is indicated for the treatment of constipation and to facilitate bowel movements. It is generally safe for adults and children over 4 years of age. However, it’s crucial to consult a doctor before administering Guttalax to children, especially those under 12 years of age.
Dosage and Administration
- Adults: The recommended dose is 10-18 drops (5-10 mg sodium picosulfate) unless otherwise prescribed by a doctor.
- Children (4 years and older): The prescribed dose is 5-9 drops (2.5-5 mg sodium picosulfate).
Begin with the lowest recommended dose and adjust as needed to achieve regular bowel movements. Do not exceed the maximum daily dose: 18 drops for adults and 9 drops for children.
It’s important to note that Guttalax should not be taken regularly every day or for extended periods without addressing the underlying cause of constipation.
How to Use Guttalax:
Take Guttalax orally in the evening, with or without liquid. The effect typically occurs within 6-12 hours.
Possible Side Effects:
Like any medication, Guttalax may cause side effects. The most common include:
- Very Common: Diarrhea
- Common: Abdominal discomfort and pain, spastic abdominal pain
- Uncommon: Dizziness, Nausea, Vomiting
Rarely, allergic reactions, fainting, and skin reactions (angioedema, rash, itching) have been reported.
Important Precautions:
- Prolonged use: Excessive or prolonged use of Guttalax can lead to fluid, potassium, and electrolyte loss, potentially causing muscle weakness and cardiac dysfunction.
- Underlying medical conditions: Patients with chronic constipation should seek medical evaluation.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Guttalax should not be taken during pregnancy. It’s considered safe for use during lactation.
- Driving and operating machinery: Dizziness or fainting may occur, so it’s recommended to avoid potentially hazardous activities if these symptoms arise.
Contraindications:
Guttalax should not be used by individuals with:
- Hypersensitivity: Allergy to sodium picosulfate, other triarylmethanes, or any of the excipients.
- Intestinal obstruction: Intestinal stenosis or obstruction.
- Abdominal pain: Severe abdominal pain, particularly if accompanied by fever, nausea, and vomiting (e.g., appendicitis).
- Acute gastrointestinal inflammation: Acute inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Severe dehydration: Severe dehydration.
- Hereditary intolerance: Hereditary intolerance to any of the drug’s excipients.
- Children under 4 years: Not to be administered to children under 4 years old.
Overdose:
Overdose may result in loose stools, abdominal cramps, and significant fluid, potassium, and electrolyte loss. If an overdose occurs, induce vomiting, perform gastric lavage, and seek immediate medical attention.
Interaction with Other Medications:
- Diuretics and corticosteroids: Concomitant use can increase the risk of electrolyte imbalance when taking Guttalax in excessive doses.
- Cardiac glycosides: Electrolyte imbalance can increase sensitivity to cardiac glycosides.
- Antibiotics: Simultaneous use may reduce the laxative effect of Guttalax.
Storage and Shelf Life:
Store Guttalax below 30°C and keep out of reach of children.
- Shelf life: 3 years
- Shelf life after opening: 12 months
Dispensing and Availability:
Guttalax is available without a prescription.
For More Information:
Consult your doctor or pharmacist for complete information on Guttalax, including a comprehensive patient information leaflet.
Please Note: This information is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
DmitryDrake89 –
Happy overall but the texture is a bit off