Co-danthramer

Health and Nutrition > Medicines > C



How does it work?

This medicine contains two active ingredients, dantron (previously spelt danthron in the UK) and poloxamer 188. The combination is known as co-danthramer and is used for relieving constipation in people who are terminally ill. The active ingredients work in two different ways to help prevent and relieve constipation. Dantron is a type of laxative called a stimulant laxative. It works by stimulating the nerve endings in the walls of the intestines. This causes the muscles in the intestinal wall to contract more often and with increased force. When these muscles contract they move the contents of the gut along the intestines, thereby relieving constipation. Poloxamer 188 is known as a faecal softener. It helps water to be drawn into the faecal material, which increases the water content and volume of the stools, making them softer and easier to pass. Co-danthramer is only prescribed to people who are terminally ill and have constipation that is caused by the painkillers they are taking. Constipation is one of the major side effects of strong opioid painkillers such as morphine, diamorphine and fentanyl, which are often needed to relieve the pain of conditions such as terminal cancer.

What is it used for?

- Prevention and treatment of constipation caused by painkillers in people who are terminally ill

Warning!

- Strong and forte preparations of co-danthramer are not recommended for children under 12 years of age.
- This medicine may cause the skin around your bottom or your urine to turn pink or red. Don't worry as this is normal and not harmful.

Use with caution in

- Incontinence

Not to be used in

- Acute abdominal pain
- Blockage of the gut (intestinal obstruction)
- Breastfeeding
- Infants in nappies
- Pregnancy

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding