Medicine Information

Arolax

Name: Arolax
Brand: Arolax
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Syrup5 mg/5 mLLaxativesATC: A06AB08

Generic Name

Sodium Picosulfate

Manufacturer

Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
arolax 1 mg syrup	৳ 30.00	N/A

Description

Overview of the medicine

Arolax 1 mg Syrup contains Sodium Picosulfate, a stimulant laxative used for the short-term treatment of constipation and for bowel preparation before medical procedures.

Uses & Indications

Short-term treatment of constipation

Bowel preparation prior to surgical, radiological, or endoscopic procedures

Dosage

Adults

Typically 5-10 mg (5-10 mL) once daily, preferably at night. Do not exceed 10 mg per day.

Elderly

Start with a lower dose (e.g., 5 mg or 5 mL) and adjust as needed, as elderly patients may be more susceptible to electrolyte imbalance.

Renal_impairment

No specific dose adjustment is generally required, but use with caution due to potential for electrolyte disturbance.

How to Take

Arolax syrup should be taken orally, usually at bedtime to produce a bowel movement the following morning. It can be taken with or without food.

Mechanism of Action

Sodium Picosulfate is a locally acting laxative that, after bacterial cleavage in the colon, stimulates the mucosa of the large intestine, resulting in increased colonic peristalsis and accumulation of water and electrolytes in the colonic lumen.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Onset of action typically occurs 6-12 hours after oral administration.

Excretion

Mainly excreted in the feces, with a small portion of the active metabolite and its glucuronide conjugates excreted in the urine.

Half life

The half-life of the active metabolite (BHPM) is approximately 6-10 hours.

Absorption

Poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. It is hydrolyzed by colonic bacteria to its active metabolite, bis-(p-hydroxyphenyl)-pyridyl-2-methane (BHPM).

Metabolism

Undergoes hydrolysis in the colon by bacterial sulfatases to the active metabolite BHPM. BHPM then undergoes glucuronidation in the liver.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to Sodium Picosulfate or any component of the formulation
Acute abdominal conditions (e.g., appendicitis, acute inflammatory bowel diseases, severe abdominal pain associated with nausea and vomiting)
Ileus or intestinal obstruction
Severe dehydration

Drug Interactions

Antibiotics

Concomitant use of broad-spectrum antibiotics may reduce the laxative effect by altering the colonic microflora responsible for hydrolyzing sodium picosulfate.

Diuretics and Corticosteroids

May increase the risk of electrolyte imbalance (especially hypokalemia) with chronic, excessive use.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose include abdominal cramps, severe diarrhea, and significant fluid and electrolyte loss (especially potassium). Management involves supportive care, including fluid and electrolyte replacement.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category B. While no evidence of adverse effects in animal studies, use in pregnancy should be avoided, especially during the first trimester, unless clearly necessary. Minimal amounts are excreted in breast milk, but caution is advised during breastfeeding; consult a doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

100 mL syrup200 mL syrup

Shelf Life

24 to 36 months when stored unopened.

Availability

Available in pharmacies nationwide

Approval Status

Approved by local regulatory authorities (e.g., DGDA)

Patent Status

Patent expired

Clinical Trials

Numerous clinical trials support the efficacy and safety of Sodium Picosulfate in the treatment of constipation and for bowel preparation, demonstrating its effectiveness as a stimulant laxative.

Lab Monitoring

Monitor serum electrolytes (especially potassium) in patients on prolonged or high-dose therapy.

Doctor Notes

Emphasize short-term use and appropriate hydration for patients.
Advise patients on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise) to manage constipation.
Be aware of potential electrolyte disturbances, especially in elderly or renally impaired patients with prolonged use.

Patient Guidelines

Use for short-term relief of constipation; do not use for more than one week without consulting a doctor.
Ensure adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
If constipation persists, seek medical advice.

Missed Dose Advice

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.