An elderly patient taking a loop diuretic comes in for a routine visit. During your interview with the patient, she informs you that she frequently uses a stimulant laxative. Which of the following problems may arise from frequent laxative use?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Frequent use of stimulant laxatives can cause electrolyte imbalances, specifically hypokalemia and metabolic alkalosis. This can be exacerbated in patients taking loop diuretics, which also increase the risk of hypokalemia. Infection, duodenal ulcer, and inflammatory bowel disorder are not directly related to laxative use.

An Elderly Patient Taking a Loop Diuretic Comes in for a Routine