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A ALIMENTARY TRACT AND METABOLISM
A06 DRUGS FOR CONSTIPATION
A06A DRUGS FOR CONSTIPATION

All agents used for treatment of constipation (regardless of indication) are classified here.
The agents are mainly subdivided according to mode of action. All enemas are classified in A06AG, regardless of mode of action.
Some combination products are classified at separate levels. These are mentioned in the respective ATC group.
Otherwise combination products are classified at separate 5th levels using the corresponding 50-series.
Laxatives in combination with centrally acting antiobesity agents are classified in A08A - Antiobesity preparations, excl. diet products.


A06AB Contact laxatives

This group comprises agents, which mainly inhibit the absorption of electrolytes and water through a specific pharmacological mechanism.
Combinations with osmotically acting laxatives are classified here.
Combinations with bulk producing laxatives are classified in A06AC - Bulk-forming laxatives.
Gas producing rectal preparations and glycerol suppositories, see A06AX - Other drugs for constipation.
Phenolphthalein in combination with liquid paraffin, see A06AA.
Combined packages with tablets and enemas are classified in A06AG.
A major part of the products classified in this group are various combinations of two or more contact laxatives. These are classified at separate 5th levels:
A06AB20 - contact laxatives in combination
A06AB30 - contact laxatives in combination with belladonna alkaloids
Otherwise combination products are classified at separate 5th levels using the corresponding 50-series.
Preparations containing bark (cortex) of Rhamnus pursiana and Rhamnus frangula are classified in A06AB07 cascara.


List of abbreviations

Last updated: 2024-01-26