Arkopharma Arkocapsulas Cascara Sagrada 250 Mg 50 Capsules
Composition
Per capsule: Cascara sagrada bark, 250 mg.
Action and mechanism
- Laxative. Cascara sagrada behaves as a stimulant laxative. These laxative effects become apparent 6-12 hours after administration.
The laxative effects are due to the anthraquinone heterosides, although these inactive compounds need to be hydrolysed in the intestine by the microbial flora, giving rise to the active anthrone, emodin-9-anthrone.
Action takes place in the colon. It increases intestinal motility by direct action on nerve endings by irritation of the mucosa or by intraneural activity on the nerve plexus. It also increases chloride secretion, decreasing fluid and electrolyte absorption. This leads to an increase in water and electrolytes in the colonic lumen, resulting in increased pressure in the intestine and therefore a laxative action. On the other hand, it inhibits Na+/K+-ATPase activity and causes a decrease in water, sodium and chloride reabsorption, as well as an increase in potassium secretion at the level of the intestinal mucosa. Other mechanisms such as stimulation of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) synthesis, a calcium-dependent mechanism or stimulation of histamine and serotonin receptors may also be involved.
Indications
- CONSTIPATION]. Short-term symptomatic treatment of occasional constipation in adults and adolescents over 12 years of age.
Posology
Dosage:
- Adults, oral: 1 capsule/24 h. Administration of this dose 2-3 times a week is usually sufficient to achieve a clinically significant effect.
- Children and adolescents under 18 years of age, oral:
* Adolescents over 12 years of age: Same as adults.
* Children up to 12 years: Safety and efficacy have not been evaluated.
- Elderly, oral: May require a lower dose.
It is recommended to avoid treatment for more than 6 days. If symptoms continue or worsen, it is advisable to consult a doctor and/or pharmacist.