A blinded laxative taper for patients with eating disorders

Abstract

A standardized blinded laxative taper shows promise as a treatment option for laxative dependency in patients with eating disorders. The laxative taper may be less costly and more available than inpatient or psychologically based treatment because it can be given on an outpatient basis under the supervision of a pharmacist.

Combat laxative abuse by stopping stimulant laxatives and establishing healthy gastrointestinal function

“…[1] However, the development of congestive heart failure must also be considered when withdrawing laxatives. [10] Patients received cascara plus a combination of milk of magnesia plus mineral oil, with the initial dose being based on the individual's previous use of bisacodyl (or an equivalent) [table II]. The protocol proposed discontinuation of all stimulant laxatives with the substitution of docusate calcium, psyllium and fruit lax, a mixture of natural ingredients (senna leaves, pitted prunes, figs, pitted dates, dark raisins), as tolerated.…”

“…[1] y although various protocols show promise A 6-month blinded study [10] investigated a pharmacistsupervised laxative withdrawal protocol in individuals with eating disorders (n = 10). [10] The liquid was reduced by 5 mL every 3-7 days until no longer needed. [10] Patients received cascara plus a combination of milk of magnesia plus mineral oil, with the initial dose being based on the individual's previous use of bisacodyl (or an equivalent) [table II].…”

“…The protocol proposed discontinuation of all stimulant laxatives with the substitution of docusate calcium, psyllium and fruit lax, a mixture of natural ingredients (senna leaves, pitted prunes, figs, pitted dates, dark raisins), as tolerated. [10] The withdrawal protocol also included education concerning normal eating and bowel habits. [10] The liquid was reduced by 5 mL every 3-7 days until no longer needed.…”

“…[10] Patients received cascara plus a combination of milk of magnesia plus mineral oil, with the initial dose being based on the individual's previous use of bisacodyl (or an equivalent) [table II]. [10] Five of the seven individuals with eating disorders who completed the study reduced their laxative intake by at least 50%, and three of the seven withdrew completely from laxative use. [10] The withdrawal protocol also included education concerning normal eating and bowel habits.…”

“…[10] The liquid was reduced by 5 mL every 3-7 days until no longer needed. [10] These data were supported by another laxative withdrawal protocol study [11] in which 57% of individuals were abstinent from laxatives at follow-up (3-20 months post-admission). [10] Five of the seven individuals with eating disorders who completed the study reduced their laxative intake by at least 50%, and three of the seven withdrew completely from laxative use.…”