Among a huge number of laxatives, sodium sulfate occupies a special place. It refers to salt preparations that increase the volume and dilute intestinal contents. This substance is also known under the synonym "Glauber's salt."
This substance is a colorless, weathered in the air, transparent crystals of bitter-salty taste. Sodium sulfate is easily soluble in water. To prepare the solution, two schemes are used:
- salt is dissolved in cold water in a ratio of 1: 3;
- in water with a temperature of 32-34 ° C, the ratio of salt to water is 3: 1.
Sodium sulfate, the use of which is based on its properties to act throughout the intestine, is an effective and safe laxative. Its effect is mainly associated with the process of changes in the osmotic pressure in the intestinal cavity. Under the influence of this tool, there is an active accumulation of water in the intestines. As a result, the entire contents of the intestine are liquefied, the peristalsis of its walls increases, therefore, feces are excreted much faster. Not the least role in the effect of this drug is provided by irritation with a solution of sodium sulfate receptors in the mucous membranes of the intestinal tract.
In contrast to herbal laxatives containing anthraglycosides, glauber's salt acts from the beginning to the very end of the intestine. After using the drug, the effect is noted after 4-6 hours.
Standard dose of salt: 15-30 g at a time - for adults; based: 1 g for 1 year of life - for children. Take the drug on an empty stomach.
Sodium sulfate, along with other saline laxatives, is indicated for various food poisoning. Its feature is that it not only cleanses the intestines, but also delays the absorption of poisons well and prevents them from entering the bloodstream.
Side effects: digestive disorders, intestinal colic, nausea, profuse urination (polyuria).
Contraindications for the use of glauber's salt are: ulcerative colitis (chronic inflammation of the colon with ulceration), duodenal ulcer, peritoneal inflammation (peritonitis), stomach ulcer, appendicitis and other inflammatory diseases of the peritoneum. The use of this laxative is also contraindicated in menstruation, pregnancy, hemorrhoids (inflammation and swelling of the veins of the rectum) in the acute stage, hypotension (low blood pressure), cachexia (extreme exhaustion), and advanced age.
Acceptance of this drug is allowed only with the permission of the attending physician.
Sodium sulfate is released in the form of a powder, which should be stored in a well-sealed container.
Unlike the described drug, sodium lauryl sulfate , which has recently been included in the vast majority of actively advertised toothpastes, shampoos, shower gels, foaming agents, cosmetic cleaners and other cosmetics, can only harm your health. This detergent, obtained during the processing of coconut oil, is the most dangerous ingredient in hygiene and cosmetics. Its widespread use is due to the comparative low cost of raw materials and excellent detergent properties. Scientists around the world, after recent studies of the properties of sodium lauryl sulfate, require a ban on the use of this substance for the manufacture of cosmetic and hygiene products. It was found that this substance is able to penetrate into the subcutaneous tissue, where it accumulates. Once in the human body, it causes poisoning, allergies and promotes the development of cancer cells. This substance is especially dangerous for children.