Which term describes agents that induce or stimulate bowel movement and loosen stools?

Prepare thoroughly for the MDC Pharmacokinetics Exam with our detailed guidance. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with hints and explanations, to excel in your test!

Multiple Choice

Which term describes agents that induce or stimulate bowel movement and loosen stools?

Explanation:
Laxatives are substances that promote defecation by increasing how often the bowel moves and by softening or facilitating the passage of stools. They work through different mechanisms—bulk-forming agents add stool mass, osmotic agents draw water into the bowel, stool softeners reduce surface tension to help water mix with stool, and stimulant laxatives increase intestinal contractions. This directly fits the description of agents that induce or stimulate bowel movement and loosen stools, which is why laxatives are the correct term. The other options target mucus breakdown, nasal congestion, or uric acid management, not bowel movement.

Laxatives are substances that promote defecation by increasing how often the bowel moves and by softening or facilitating the passage of stools. They work through different mechanisms—bulk-forming agents add stool mass, osmotic agents draw water into the bowel, stool softeners reduce surface tension to help water mix with stool, and stimulant laxatives increase intestinal contractions. This directly fits the description of agents that induce or stimulate bowel movement and loosen stools, which is why laxatives are the correct term. The other options target mucus breakdown, nasal congestion, or uric acid management, not bowel movement.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy