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Laxatives - Stimulant Laxatives
Nutrients
Depleted by Laxatives
Stimulant Laxatives
Nutrients Depleted
Potassium1
Symptoms of deficiency include anorexia, nausea, drowsiness, fatigue, muscle
pain, and weakness (usually of the lower extremities). Severe cases may lead to
heart irregularities and respiratory difficulties.2,3
Editorial Note
The selected depletions information presented here identifies
some of the nutrients that may be depleted by certain medications. The signs and
symptoms associated with nutrient deficiency may also indicate conditions other
than nutrient deficiency. If you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms
mentioned, it does not necessarily mean that you are nutrient deficient.
Nutrient depletion depends upon a number of factors, including your medical
history, diet, and lifestyle as well as the length of time you have been taking
the medication. Please consult your healthcare provider; he or she can best
assess and address your individual healthcare needs, and determine if you are at
risk for nutrient depletions from these medications as well as others not listed
here. References
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1. | Fleming, BJ. et al. Laxative induced hypokalemia, sodium depletion and
hyperreninemia. Effects of potassium and sodium replacement on the renin
angiotensin system. Ann. Intern. Med. 83:60-62, 1975. |
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2. | Fauci, A. ed. et. al. Harrison's Principles of Internal
Medicine. Fourteenth Edition. New York, Mc-Graw-Hill Companies Health
Professional Division, 1998. |
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3. | National Research Council, Recommended Dietary Allowances. Tenth
Edition. Washington, DC, National Academy Press,
1989.
Copyright © 2000 Integrative Medicine
Communications
The publisher does not accept any responsibility for the
accuracy of the information or the consequences arising from the application,
use, or misuse of any of the information contained herein, including any injury
and/or damage to any person or property as a matter of product liability,
negligence, or otherwise. No warranty, expressed or implied, is made in regard
to the contents of this material. No claims or endorsements are made for any
drugs or compounds currently marketed or in investigative use. This material is
not intended as a guide to self-medication. The reader is advised to discuss the
information provided here with a doctor, pharmacist, nurse, or other authorized
healthcare practitioner and to check product information (including package
inserts) regarding dosage, precautions, warnings, interactions, and
contraindications before administering any drug, herb, or supplement discussed
herein.
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