laxerende

Laxerende is a term used in Danish pharmacology and medicine to describe substances or actions that promote laxation, i.e., the passage of stool from the bowels. In practice it refers to laxatives and to the laxative effect that certain medicines or foods have on the intestine. The adjective can be used with nouns such as laxerende middel (laxative) and laxerende virkning (laxative effect).

Laxerende preparations act through several core mechanisms. Osmotic laxatives draw water into the intestinal lumen, increasing stool water content (examples include lactulose and polyethylene glycol). Stimulant laxatives irritate the intestinal mucosa to increase peristalsis (such as senna and bisacodyl). Bulk-forming laxatives add dietary fiber or other bulking agents that increase stool volume and stimulate movement (psyllium). Emollients or stool softeners reduce surface tension and ease passage of stool (docusate). Some agents combine effects, and certain foods with high fiber can have laxerende properties.

Indications for laxerende treatment include relief of constipation, preparation for diagnostic procedures, or short-term management of bowel irregularities. They should be used with adequate fluid intake and under medical guidance if used long term. Cautions include potential dependency with stimulant laxatives, electrolyte disturbances with osmotic laxatives, and risks for dehydration in sensitive individuals. They are used with care in elderly patients, those with kidney disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or during pregnancy.

Most laxerende agents are accessible over the counter in many countries, with dosing guided by product labels or medical advice. Common side effects include abdominal cramps, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and, in rare cases, electrolyte imbalance. The term itself stems from Latin laxativus, meaning capable of loosening, and is widely used in Danish medical literature to describe agents and effects that promote bowel movements.