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In medicine, a cathartic is a substance that accelerates defecation. This is similar to a laxative, which is a substance that eases defecation, usually by softening feces. It is possible for a substance to be both a laxative and a cathartic. However, agents such as psyllium seed husks increase the bulk of the feces.

Cathartics such as sorbitol, magnesium citrate, magnesium sulfate, or sodium sulfate were previously used as a form of gastrointestinal decontamination following poisoning via ingestion. They are no longer routinely recommended for poisonings. High-dose cathartics may be an effective means of ridding the lower gastrointestinal tract of toxins; however, they carry a risk of electrolyte imbalances and dehydration. Catharsis can be an effect of pesticide poisonings, such as with elemental sulfur.

References

1. Cathartics at the U.S. National Library of Medicine Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)
2. The MSDS HyperGlossary: Catharsis
3. "Psyllium Husk Information". PsylliumHusk.info. Retrieved 2023-09-02.
4. American Academy Of Clinical Toxico; European Association Of Poisons Cen (2004). "Position paper: cathartics". Journal of Toxicology. Clinical Toxicology. 42 (3): 243–53. doi:10.1081/CLT-120039801. PMID 15362590.
5. Tamara McGregor; et al. (2009). "Evaluation and management of common childhood poisonings". Am Fam Physician. 79 (5): 397–403. PMID 19275069.
6. Roberts, James R.; Reigart, J. Routt (2013). "Other Insecticides and Acaracides" (PDF). Recognition and Management of Pesticide Poisonings (6th ed.). Washington DC: Office of Pesticide Programs, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. p. 93.

• Laxatives
• Toxicology treatments