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Cummings, J.H., Sladen, G.E., James, O.F.W., Sarner, M. and Misiewicz, J.J. (1974) Laxative-induced diarrhoea: A continuing clinical problem. British Medical Journal, 1, 537. doi:10.1136/bmj.1.5907.537

has been cited by the following article:

• TITLE: Diphenyl methane laxatives do not induce electrolyte imbalance

  AUTHORS: Stefan Müller-Lissner

  KEYWORDS: Laxative; Bisacodyl; Sodium Picosulfate; Hyponatremia; Hypokalemia

  JOURNAL NAME: Open Journal of Gastroenterology, Vol.3 No.5, September 9, 2013

  ABSTRACT: Aim: To analyse whether there are changes in sodium and potassium serum levels during chronic treatment with the diphenyl methanes bisacodyl and sodium picosulfate. Methods: A literature search was done using PubMed, and the reference lists of pertinent papers were screened for additional studies. Only studies of at least 4 weeks duration were considered for further analysis. Results: Four relevant studies were identified. In three randomised controlled trials with 5 to 10 mg daily of bisacodyl or sodium picosulfate, respectively, over four weeks no electrolyte losses were found. Hypokalemia was also not a problem in a group of patients with paraplegia using bisacodyl suppositories for 2 to 34 years. Conclusions: Electrolyte losses, particularly hypokalemia, are not a problem when bisacodyl or sodium picosulfate are used long-term.