Co-danthramer

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About co-danthramer

This belongs to the group of medicines known as stimulant laxatives.

Co-danthramer contains two ingredients danthron and poloxamer. Stimulant laxatives are used to treat or prevent constipation, often caused by strong analgesics (pain killers). Co-danthramer is only suitable for some patients and should only be taken if your doctor has prescribed it for you.

Co-danthramer works by encouraging the muscles in the bowel to increase the movement of waste products (stools) through the body. It also softens the stools so that they pass out of the body more easily.

Dantron is also known as danthron. You may notice either name in use on packaging.

Co-danthramer is available in capsule and oral liquid form.

It is also sometimes known as: Codalax; Codalax forte; Danlax;. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before taking co-danthramer

Before taking co-danthramer make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, breast feeding or trying for a baby
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines

How to take co-danthramer

• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Take co-danthramer exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Co-danthramer takes about 10-12 hours to work and therefore should be taken at bedtime.
• If you miss a dose of co-danthramer, take it as soon as you remember. Leave out a dose if you do not remember to take it at night. Continue taking it at the usual time and never take two doses at the same time.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
• Never take more than your doctor has told you. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of co-danthramer contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you if possible, even if it is empty.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Co-danthramer can colour the urine, stools and skin around the bottom red. This is no cause for concern and is completely harmless.
• A balanced diet containing fibre (whole grain breads and cereals, bran, fruit and green leafy vegetables) with 6 to 8 full glasses of water each day and daily exercise are important in maintaining healthy bowel function. For individuals who have problems with constipation, food such as pastries, puddings, sugar, sweets, cheese and cake can make matters worse.
• Avoid drinking lots of caffeine (tea, coffee, colas) or alcohol containing drinks as they have a diuretic effect, which means they cause a loss of fluid from the body, causing dehydration and constipation.

Can co-danthramer cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects such as tummy cramps, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the side effects continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store co-danthramer

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Do not keep unwanted or out of date medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2006   Updated: 08/03/2006   

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