title: Review of laxative utilization in a skilled nursing facility.
abstract: Laxatives are the most frequently prescribed drugs in long-term care facilities. Of all nursing home patients, 58 percent receive laxatives--often more than one, and usually on a "prn" basis. This pattern of dosage is probably used in an effort to prevent constipation. Selection of a laxative should be based on careful evaluation of the cause of constipation, with due consideration being given to differences in drug effectiveness and the incidence of side effects. A review of laxative utilization among 73 elderly patients in a large metropolitan skilled nursing facility showed a rational use of these drugs. However, more attention should have been paid to the dietary management of constipation.
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D002400:Cathartics / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003248:Constipation / Q000178:diet therapy / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology; D004043:Dietary Fiber / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004363:Drug Utilization; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008134:Long-Term Care; D008297:Male; D012866:Skilled Nursing Facilities
chemical_list: D002400:Cathartics; D004043:Dietary Fiber