What is Enterosgel and How Does it Work?
Enterosgel is an oral intestinal adsorbent. It is a gel made of polymethylsiloxane polyhydrate with a porous structure. This structure allows it to bind to medium-sized toxic molecules in the gut, such as bacterial toxins, allergens, and other harmful substances.
Enterosgel is not absorbed into the bloodstream; it stays in the gut where it captures unwanted substances. It is then naturally eliminated through bowel movements, taking the bound toxins with it. This action helps relieve digestive issues and normalize gut function.
Enterosgel’s adsorptive properties
The gel's effectiveness comes from its microstructure and ability to selectively bind to larger, harmful molecules while leaving beneficial substances and gut bacteria mostly unaffected. This selective binding reduces the risk of nutrient depletion that can happen with other absorbents.
How Enterosgel Affects Bowel Frequency
Instead of increasing bowel movements, Enterosgel is used to manage conditions with frequent bowel movements, such as acute diarrhea and IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D). Studies show it reduces stool frequency and the duration of diarrhea.
- Acute Diarrhea: It helps reduce the number of bowel movements by removing toxins and pathogens causing irritation and increased gut movement.
- IBS-D: For IBS-D patients, Enterosgel can normalize stool consistency and frequency and ease symptoms like bloating.
The side effect of constipation
Although it aims to decrease excessive bowel movements, Enterosgel can rarely cause temporary constipation, particularly if not enough fluids are consumed. Since it adsorbs excess fluid, insufficient water intake can lead to hardened stool. Enterosgel is not for constipation and is not recommended for those with intestinal atony or bowel blockage.
Enterosgel vs. Laxatives: A Comparison
Enterosgel and laxatives have different functions. Laxatives increase bowel movements, while Enterosgel regulates and normalizes them when they are too frequent.
| Feature | Enterosgel (Intestinal Adsorbent) | Laxatives |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | To manage diarrhea, reduce stool frequency, and normalize consistency. | To treat constipation by increasing bowel movement frequency. |
| Mechanism of Action | Binds to and removes toxins and pathogens from the gut; not absorbed into the body. | Either stimulates intestinal nerves (stimulant laxatives), adds moisture to stool (stool softeners), or increases bulk (fiber supplements). |
| Effect on Bowel Movements | Reduces stool frequency, firms loose stools. | Increases or facilitates the frequency of bowel movements. |
| Primary Target | Diarrhea, IBS with Diarrhea, intoxication, allergies. | Constipation. |
| Suitability for IBS | Used for IBS-D (diarrhea-dominant). | Typically used for IBS-C (constipation-dominant). |
Why Enterosgel is not a laxative
As seen in the table, Enterosgel should not be used for constipation and is not recommended for those with intestinal blockage. Its purpose is opposite to that of a laxative.
Using Enterosgel Safely and Effectively
Enterosgel is generally well-tolerated. Always mix the dose with water. Staying hydrated is important to avoid temporary constipation.
- Timing: Take Enterosgel 1–2 hours apart from other medications to prevent interference.
- Duration: For acute diarrhea, use for 3–5 days. For chronic conditions like IBS-D, follow medical advice on duration.
- Medical advice: Consult a healthcare professional before use, especially with other health conditions, medications, or during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Conclusion
The question, Does Enterosgel make you poop more?, is based on a misunderstanding. Enterosgel is an intestinal adsorbent designed to reduce excessive bowel movements caused by acute diarrhea and IBS-D. It binds and removes harmful substances, and can rarely cause temporary constipation. It is not a laxative and should not be used for constipation. Understanding its mechanism is essential for proper use in managing conditions where reducing bowel frequency is the goal.
Sources
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