Dantron (historically: Dorbane)
Generic Name
Dantron
Manufacturer
Historically various manufacturers; no longer widely produced
Country
Globally (historically); no specific country for current widespread production
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| dantron 4 mg oral solution | ৳ 45.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Dantron is an anthraquinone derivative historically used as a stimulant laxative for the short-term treatment of constipation. It works by stimulating bowel movements. However, it was withdrawn from many markets globally due to concerns over its potential carcinogenicity based on animal studies.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Historically, 25-150 mg daily, usually at bedtime. For 4 mg oral solution, specific dosing would be determined by a healthcare professional.
Elderly
Lower doses may be considered, but general use is contraindicated due to safety concerns.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution; dosage adjustment may be needed (historically, but not recommended now).
How to Take
For oral use. Typically taken at bedtime to produce a bowel movement in the morning.
Mechanism of Action
Dantron acts directly on the colonic mucosa, stimulating peristalsis and reducing water and electrolyte absorption, leading to increased bowel motility and softer stools.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
6-12 hours
Excretion
Excreted primarily via urine and feces.
Half life
Approximately 12 hours
Absorption
Readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
Metabolism
Metabolized in the liver (e.g., to glucuronides and sulfates).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to dantron or any component
- Acute abdominal conditions (e.g., appendicitis, inflammatory bowel disease)
- Intestinal obstruction
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Children under 12 years
- Patients with known or suspected carcinogenicity risk
Drug Interactions
Cardiac glycosides (e.g., digoxin)
Prolonged use can lead to hypokalemia, increasing the toxicity of cardiac glycosides.
Thiazide diuretics, corticosteroids
May enhance potassium loss, increasing the risk of hypokalemia.
Storage
Store at room temperature (15-30°C), away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and significant fluid and electrolyte imbalance. Treatment is supportive, focusing on fluid and electrolyte replacement.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential genotoxicity and carcinogenicity risks. Also contraindicated during lactation as it can pass into breast milk and potentially harm the infant.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to dantron or any component
- Acute abdominal conditions (e.g., appendicitis, inflammatory bowel disease)
- Intestinal obstruction
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Children under 12 years
- Patients with known or suspected carcinogenicity risk
Drug Interactions
Cardiac glycosides (e.g., digoxin)
Prolonged use can lead to hypokalemia, increasing the toxicity of cardiac glycosides.
Thiazide diuretics, corticosteroids
May enhance potassium loss, increasing the risk of hypokalemia.
Storage
Store at room temperature (15-30°C), away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and significant fluid and electrolyte imbalance. Treatment is supportive, focusing on fluid and electrolyte replacement.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential genotoxicity and carcinogenicity risks. Also contraindicated during lactation as it can pass into breast milk and potentially harm the infant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months for oral solutions (historically).
Availability
Largely withdrawn from most global markets due to safety concerns (potential carcinogenicity); very limited or no current availability.
Approval Status
Withdrawn from many markets due to carcinogenicity concerns (historically approved)
Patent Status
Expired
Clinical Trials
Early clinical trials focused on efficacy for constipation. Later research, particularly animal studies, led to concerns about carcinogenicity and subsequent withdrawal from markets.
Lab Monitoring
- For prolonged use (historically), monitoring of serum electrolytes (especially potassium) was advised.
Doctor Notes
- Dantron is a historical laxative largely withdrawn due to potential carcinogenicity.
- Avoid prescribing or recommending dantron due to safer alternatives available.
- Educate patients on lifestyle modifications and safer laxative options for constipation management.
Patient Guidelines
- Dantron is largely withdrawn and generally not recommended for use.
- If prescribed historically, use for the shortest duration possible, typically not more than 1 week.
- Consult a healthcare professional for safer alternatives for constipation.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for the next dose. Do not double dose. Given its withdrawal, further doses are not recommended.
Driving Precautions
Dantron is not known to impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, severe diarrhea or abdominal cramps may indirectly affect concentration.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a high-fiber diet.
- Ensure adequate fluid intake.
- Engage in regular physical activity to promote bowel regularity.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.