Cascara

Cascara sagrada is the dried bark of Rhamnus purshiana, a shrub of the Pacific states of the United States, used as a cathartic. Cascara is called also beaberry bark, chittenbark, dogwoodbark. its laxative principles are glycosidal anthraquinones such as emodine and barbaloin.

Brands
Adult Dose
Dose: 0.285 to 1 mg/kg
Single Dose: 0.64 (0.6425)
Frequency: 24 hourly
Route: PO
Instructions: -
Neonatal
Dose:
Single Dose:
Frequency:
Route:
Instructions: Not recommended in this age group
Paedriatic
Dose:
Single Dose:
Frequency:
Route:
Instructions: Not recommended in this age group
Characteristics
. It is of Natural origin and belongs to Anthraquinone Glycosides. It belongs to Laxatives pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action.
Contraindications
Cascara is contraindicated in conditions like Intestinal obstruction,Appendicitis,Abdominal pain.
Effects
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Cascara, which give rise to further complications include Cathartic colon.Cascara produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Hypokalemia, Hypotension, Severe diarrhea, Dehydration, Muscle weakness, Uremia, Thirst. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Cascara therapy.The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Cascara include Severe diarrhea.The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Cascara are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Nausea, Cramping abdominal pain, Abdominal distress.
Indications
Cascara is primarily indicated in conditions like Constipation.
Interactions
Cascara is known to interact with other drugs, the details of drug interactions is as follows:DrugDetailsSeverityOnsetManagementSulfolaxSulfolax docusate may increase the toxicity of Cascara by increasing intestinal absorption of the drug. ModerateConcurrent use should be avoided. These interactions are sometimes beneficial and sometimes may pose threats to life. Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Interfrence
Falsely elevated result in the Kober reaction for oestrogens False +ve test for urobilinogen by yellow coloration of the urine
Risks
Drug should not be given to Paediatrics, and Neonates.If prescribing authority justifies the benefits of the drug against the possible damages he/she should reevaluate them and consult the reference material and previous studies.
Storage
Liq, Tab Store in a well closed container, Below 40°C. Protect from Sunlight and Moisture.
Warnings
Cascara should be used with caution (if contains tartrazine) in patients with aspirin hypersensitivity, because may cause allergic reactions (including bronchial asthma). Discontinue use if skin eruption occur.
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