PICOSPIN

PICOSPIN is a triple-mechanism combination laxative providing comprehensive constipation relief through three complementary modes of action.

Liquid Paraffin (1.25mL per 5mL) is a lubricant laxative — an inert mineral oil that coats the intestinal wall and the surface of the faecal mass, reducing friction and water reabsorption from the colon. This lubrication softens the stool and facilitates easier passage without stimulating intestinal contractions.

Milk of Magnesia (Magnesium Hydroxide, 3.75mL per 5mL) is an osmotic laxative. Magnesium ions are poorly absorbed from the intestinal lumen, drawing water from the intestinal wall into the colon by osmosis. This osmotic water influx increases stool water content, softening and expanding the faecal mass, stimulating peristalsis through distension, and producing a bowel movement typically within 6–8 hours.

Sodium Picosulphate (3.33mg per 5mL) is a stimulant laxative prodrug. After oral administration, sodium picosulphate is hydrolysed by colonic bacteria to its active metabolite (bis-(p-hydroxyphenyl)-pyridyl-2-methane, BHPM), which directly stimulates the colonic mucosa's myenteric nerve plexus — increasing colonic peristalsis and intestinal secretion. The result is increased colonic motility and a bowel movement typically within 6–12 hours. Sodium picosulphate acts exclusively in the colon, minimising small intestinal side effects.

PICOSPIN is indicated for constipation across multiple aetiology and severity levels, providing comprehensive relief through the combination of lubricant, osmotic, and stimulant laxative mechanisms.

Functional Constipation: The most common indication — chronic constipation in adults and elderly patients where dietary fibre and hydration measures are insufficient. The triple mechanism ensures efficacy across different constipation subtypes (slow transit, outlet obstruction, mixed).

Drug-Induced Constipation: Opioid-induced constipation, constipation from antidepressants, antihypertensives, antacids, or iron supplements. The stimulant component (sodium picosulphate) is particularly effective for drug-induced reduced peristalsis.

Post-Operative Constipation: Following abdominal, gynaecological, or orthopaedic surgery where the combination of opioid analgesia, reduced mobility, and dietary change produces severe constipation.

Elderly Constipation: Geriatric patients with reduced intestinal motility — the liquid paraffin lubrication and osmotic softening are particularly gentle and appropriate for elderly colonic physiology.

Paediatric Constipation: The syrup formulation enables accurate paediatric dosing, and the gentle mechanism of liquid paraffin and milk of magnesia is appropriate for children above 2 years.

Pre-Procedural Bowel Preparation: Mild bowel preparation before abdominal X-ray, colonoscopy, or abdominal ultrasound where complete bowel clearance is not required.

Dosage and administration should be as prescribed by a qualified doctor or medical professional. Do not self-medicate. Always follow your physician's instructions regarding dose, frequency and duration of treatment.