Regulation of Bowel Function by a Laxative/Stool Softener Preparation in Aged Nursing Home Patients

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
A 12 wk program for 42 chronically constipated patients in a nursing home involved a graduated dosage regimen of standardized senna concentrate with dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate (Senokot-S Tablets), a high-fiber diet and an increased fluid intake. The program achieved a satisfactory pattern of bowel evacuation in 36 (86%) of the patients. This pattern, as seen during a 4 wk follow-up while therapy was continued, was characterized by absence of fecal impactions, regular comfortable bowel movements of appropriate consistency, minimal or no straining at stool and minimal or no resort to enemas. In the initial 2 wk control period, none of the 42 patients had responded adequately to only dietary modification and increased hydration. Six additional patients whose response to the control regimen was equivocal appeared to benefit from the medication program. Two of these were able to discontinue the laxative tablets competely by the end of the 12 wk test period. None of the 48 patients who completed the course experienced any adverse effects related to this rehabilitative program.