Cathartics and Enemas

Although the use of cathartics and enemas is traditional, these measures are most unlikely to reduce absorption since this usually occurs rap­idly in the upper small intestine. They can only add to the misery and discomfort of the patient Efficacy in removal of drug has never been es­tablished. In one recent study, saline catharsis had no beneficial effect whatsoever on the ab­sorption of aspirin taken with charcoal (Sketris et al. 1982).

Whole Gut Lavage

One situation where attempts to empty the bowel may be helpful is in poisoning with ’slow’ or ‘timed release’ formulations. The number of such preparations on the market is increasing and since they usually contain a much larger dose of drug than ordinary tablets, intoxication may be severe and prolonged.

Abdominal, Absorption, Aspirin, Bowel, Charcoal, Discomfort, Dose, Effect, Gas­tric, Ingestion, Intestine, Intoxication, Oral, Saline, Severe, Surgery, Tablet, Treatment

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