Laxative overdose
Alternative Names
Laxative abuseSymptoms
Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, diarrhea, are most common. Dehydration and electrolyte problems are more common in children than adults. Below are symptoms specific to the actual product.
Bisacodyl:
- Cramps
- Diarrhea
Senna; Cascara sagrada:
- Abdominal pain
- Bloody stools
- Collapse
- Diarrhea
Phenolphthalein:
- Abdominal pain
- Collapse
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Drop in blood pressure
- Low blood sugar
- Rash
Sodium phosphate:
- Abdominal pain
- Collapse
- Diarrhea
- Muscle weakness
- Vomiting
Magnesium-containing products:
- Abdominal pain
- Collapse
- Coma
- Death
- Diarrhea (watery)
- Drop in blood pressure
- Flushing
- Gastrointestinal irritation
- Muscle weakness
- Painful bowel movements
- Painful urination
- Slowed breathing
- Thirst
- Vomiting
Castor oil can cause gastrointestinal irritation.
Mineral oil can cause aspiration pneumonia, a condition where vomited stomach contents are inhaled.
Products containing methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, polycarbophil, or psyllium may cause choking or intestinal blockage if they are not taken with plenty of fluids.
References
Ford MD, Clinical Toxicology. 1st ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2001: 332-333.
Feldman M, Friedman LS, Sleisenger MH, eds. Sleisenger & Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2002:149.
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