Position paper: cathartics

J Toxicol Clin Toxicol. 2004;42(3):243-53. doi: 10.1081/clt-120039801.

Abstract

The administration of a cathartic alone has no role in the management of the poisoned patient and is not recommended as a method of gut decontamination. Experimental data are conflicting regarding the use of cathartics in combination with activated charcoal. No clinical studies have been published to investigate the ability of a cathartic, with or without activated charcoal, to reduce the bioavailability of drugs or to improve the outcome of poisoned patients. Based on available data, the routine use of a cathartic in combination with activated charcoal is not endorsed. If a cathartic is used, it should be limited to a single dose in order to minimize adverse effects of the cathartic. A review of the literature since the preparation of the 1997 Cathartics Position Statement revealed no new evidence that would require a revision of the conclusions of the Statement.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cathartics / administration & dosage
  • Cathartics / adverse effects
  • Cathartics / therapeutic use*
  • Charcoal / therapeutic use
  • Citric Acid / therapeutic use
  • Contraindications
  • Humans
  • Organometallic Compounds / therapeutic use
  • Poisoning / drug therapy*
  • Sorbitol / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Cathartics
  • Organometallic Compounds
  • Charcoal
  • Citric Acid
  • Sorbitol
  • magnesium citrate