Abstract: The invention provides a colon cleansing solution comprising: a) 300 to 800 mmol per liter ascorbate anion provided by a mixture of: (i) ascorbic acid and (ii) one or more salts of ascorbic acid the components (i) and (ii) being present in a molar ratio of from 1:4.5 to 1:7.0; and b) 10 to 200 g per liter polyethylene glycol. The invention also provides methods an kits associated with, or making use of the solutions, and compositions for the preparation of the solutions.

Abstract: The present invention provides a highly palatable colon cleansing formulation that utilizes a low chloride electrolyte-replenishing base solution. When formulated with polyethylene glycol and a selected sugar alcohol, the formulation offers the advantages of superior palatability without undesirable concomitant side effects or a decrease in cleansing efficacy.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for the long term treatment of gastrointestinal disorders in a human subject, which comprises administering an effective amount of a halogenated prostaglandin compound and/or its tautomer to the subject. The method induces substantially no electrolyte shifting during the term of the treatment. The compound used in the present invention can improve quality of life in the human subjects with gastrointestinal disorders, are similarly effective in treating male and female subjects, and also effective in a human subject aged even 65 years and older.

Abstract: A method for preparing the human bowel to undergo colonoscopy. A salt solution, preferable having a 0.9% w/v concentration of sodium chloride in water and warmed to 40 C. degrees, is utilized. A series of twisting and maneuvering exercises, such as those used in Yoga, is also performed. A predetermine quantity of the salt solution is consumed during predetermined intervals between the exercise steps, intending to clear and cleanse the colon so as to prepare it to undergo colonoscopy within about 3 to 24 hours after the completion of the preparation.

Abstract: Disclosed is L-glucose monohydrate and compositions thereof. Also disclosed are methods for making L-glucose monohydrate and compositions thereof. Further disclosed are methods for colonic cleansing using L-sugars, such as L-glucose monohydrate, and compositions and kits useful for colonic cleansing.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for rapid bowel cleansing which includes the use of a mixture of polyethylene glycol and sodium phosphate(s). The method is particularly useful for preparing the bowel prior to surgery or diagnostic procedures such as colonoscopies. The invention further comprises methods for cleansing the bowel using these compositions, and bowel cleansing kits comprising these compositions.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical composition comprising an analgesic or analgesic combination and a stool softener is disclosed. The analgesic is selected from morphine, meperidine, fentanyl, hydromorphone, oxymorphone, oxycodone, hydrocodone, methadone, propoxyphene, pentazocine, levorphanol, codeine, acetaminophen and combinations of these analgesics. The composition is formulated for oral administration as a liquid or solid dosage form for immediate, slow, delayed or sustained-release characteristics.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical composition comprising an analgesic or analgesic combination and a stool softener is disclosed. The analgesic is selected from morphine, meperidine, fentanyl, hydromorphone, oxymorphone, oxycodone, hydrocodone, methadone, propoxyphene, pentazocine, levorphanol, codeine, acetaminophen and combinations of these analgesics. The composition is formulated for oral administration as a liquid or solid dosage form for immediate, slow, delayed or sustained-release characteristics.

Abstract: A method for improving bowel movement of a subject desiring such an improvement, includes administering to the subject a defructose anhydride (DFA) in an amount effective to improve bowel movement.

Abstract: A composition comprising, per liter of aqueous solution, from 30 to 350 g polyethylene glycol, from 3 to 20 g of an ascorbic acid component selected form the group consisting of ascorbic acid, a salt of ascorbic acid, or a mixture thereof, an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal sulphate, preferably from 1 to 15 g thereof, and optionally one or more electrolytes selected from sodium chloride, potassium chloride, and sodium hydrogen carbonate, and preferably also comprising flavorings, is effective in cleansing the gut in preparation for a endoscopy, especially colonoscopy. It is safer than conventional sodium phosphate-based gut cleansing compositions, and hence can be used for patients who would be at risk with sodium phosphate-based compositions, and is better tolerated than conventional PEG-based compositions, leading to better patient compliance and enabling effective out-patient use.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical composition comprising an analgesic or analgesic combination and a stool softener is disclosed. The analgesic is selected from morphine, meperidine, fentanyl, hydromorphone, oxymorphone, oxycodone, hydrocodone, methadone, propoxyphene, pentazocine, levorphanol, codeine, acetaminophen and combinations of these analgesics. The composition is formulated for oral administration as a liquid or solid dosage form for immediate, slow, delayed or sustained-release characteristics.

Abstract: A composition and method for cleansing a colon prior to endoscopic procedure. More particularly, a combination of bisacodyl, metoclopramide, sodium, and/or a phosphorus containing composition administered in sequential doses for preparing a colon prior to colonoscopy.

Abstract: A colonic cleansing kit comprises an osmotic colonic evacuant, and an oral rehydration mixture. The oral rehydration mixture comprises sugar, and salt. The sugar comprises a glucose containing saccharide, and the salt comprises sodium.

Abstract: Stimulant laxative in combination with an osmotic laxative produces safe and effective bowel and colon cleansing with a reduced volume of liquid input. Administering to a patient an oral stimulant laxative, such as bisacodyl, followed, after a biologically determined interval, by a reduced volume of a PEG in water solution cleanses the bowels and colon in preparation for diagnostic colonoscopy, without the profuse uncontrollable diarrhea that typically follows either ingestion of large volume isotonic ravages, or smaller volume hypertonic lavages.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical composition comprising an analgesic or analgesic combination and a stool softener is disclosed. The analgesic is selected from morphine, meperidine, fentanyl, hydromorphone, oxymorphone, oxycodone, hydrocodone, methadone, propoxyphene, pentazocine, levorphanol, codeine, acetaminophen and combinations of these analgesics. The composition is formulated for oral administration as a liquid or solid dosage form for immediate, slow, delayed or sustained-release characteristics.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides compositions comprising an extracted portion of psyllium seed in combination with one or more of a binder, suspending agent, or edible acid. In particular, the present invention is directed to compositions comprising: (a) a polysaccharide component comprising xylose and arabinose, wherein the ratio of xylose to arabinose is at least about 3:1, by weight; and (b) a dispersing component selected from the group consisting of binders, suspending agents, edible acids, and mixtures thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the compositions further comprise an aqueous liquid, for example, water or juice (e.g., fruit or vegetable juice). As such, the present invention further relates to methods of preparing a product comprising admixing the present compositions with an aqueous liquid. The present compositions are useful for the treatment of a variety of benefits, including providing treatment for gastrointestinal conditions or providing other gastrointestinal benefits.

Abstract: A composition and method for cleansing a colon prior to endoscopic procedure. More particularly, a combination of bisacodyl, metoclopramide, sodium, and/or a phosphorus containing composition administered in sequential doses for preparing a colon prior to colonoscopy.

Abstract: An agent for relieving intestinal disorders which contain live cells of a strain belonging to Lactobacillus helveticus. This strain is preferably characterized by a resistance to a specific bile acid, adhesiveness to intestinal epithelial cells, etc. A method of controlling intestinal functions which involves the step of administering such a medicine to a subject with a need for the control of intestinal functions. When administered to humans or the like, these agents exert effects of elevating defecation frequency, etc., thereby efficaciously improving the intestinal environment.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides compositions comprising a plurality of agglomerates comprising a polysaccharide component comprising xylose and arabinose, wherein the ratio of xylose to arabinose is at least about 3:1, by weight; wherein the compositions further comprise: (i) optionally, a first surrounding layer which surrounds the agglomerate, wherein the first surrounding layer is a hydrophobic layer; and (ii) optionally, a second surrounding layer which surrounds the agglomerate, wherein the second surrounding layer is a hydrophilic layer; wherein the compositions comprise at least one of the first surrounding layer and the second surrounding layer, and wherein when the agglomerate comprises the first surrounding layer and the second surrounding layer then the first surrounding layer is a preceding layer relative to the second surrounding layer.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides compositions comprising an extracted portion of psyllium seed in combination with one or more of a binder or edible acid. In particular, the present invention is directed to compositions comprising a polysaccharide component comprising xylose and arabinose, wherein the ratio of the xylose to the arabinose is at least about 3:1, by weight, and wherein the polysaccharide particles have a mean particle size distribution of from about 0.001 microns to about 150 microns. In a further embodiment, the compositions comprise a plurality of agglomerates comprising the polysaccharide component and a dispersing component selected from binders, suspending agents, edible acids, and mixtures thereof. In yet a further embodiment, the compositions comprise agglomerates comprising a polysaccharide component, wherein the agglomerates have a mean particle size distribution of from about 100 to about 500 microns.

Abstract: The field of colonic diagnostic and surgical procedures is hampered by the lack of optimal means available to cleanse the colon. A compromise between convenient, distasteful, solid or low volume, hyperosmotic solutions which cause considerable fluid and electrolyte imbalances in patients and large volume, difficult to consume, iso-osmotic solutions has had to be made heretofore. This invention describes a low volume, hyper-osmotic solution consisting of sulfate salts with and with out polyethylene glycol. Unlike prior art, this composition is useful for the cleansing of the bowel and, in lower volumes, as a laxative, without producing clinically significant changes in bodily function.

Abstract: Use of a non-fermented osmotic laxative as an active agent for preparation of a medicinal product for treating and/or preventing colon and/or rectum cancers. A method of treating or preventing colon or rectum cancer comprising administering to a mammal a therapeutically effective amount of a non-fermented osmotic laxative.

Abstract: Overnight relief of constipation symptoms is achieved, and control of bowel function is enhanced by oral administration of an effective or sufficient amount of a composition comprising polyethylene glycol (PEG), preferably dispersed and or dissolved in an aqueous medium. The PEG compositions used for the present invention are preferably substantially free of ancillary electrolytes.

Abstract: A laxative preparation obtained by the direct bioactive chloroform or methanolic extraction of rhizomes and/or roots of Picrorrhiza Kurroa and its method for manufacture. The laxative preparation can be used for treatment of human beings for relieving constipation using the same.

Abstract: An herbal formulation which acts as an intestinal bowel soother is disclosed which comprises: slippery elm bark; German chamomile flower; fenugreek seed; fennel seed; skullcap herb; cranberry fruit; peppermint leaf; a mixture of Chinese herbs, comprising atractylodes root, capillary artemisia herb, codonopsis root, Job's tears seed, schisandra fruit, agastache whole plant, Chinese licorice root, Chinese thoroughwax, ginger root, Korean ash branches bark, magnolia bark, phellodendron bark, poria cocos root, psyllium seed, Chinese goldthread, Chinese white peony root, costus root, silver root, tangerine peel, and angelica root; and methylsulfonylmethane.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide an anti-constipation composition containing a halogenated-bi-cyclic compound as an active ingredient in a ratio of bi-cyclic/mono-cyclic structure of at least 1:1. The halogenated-bi-cyclic compound is represented by Formula (I): where X1 and X2 are preferably both fluorine atoms. The composition can be used to treat constipation without substantive side-effects, such as stomachache.

Abstract: A method of weight reduction in human beings, wherein a human ingests a laxative effective dosage of non-pathogenic Escherichia coli to produce a weight loss of up to two pounds within one week.

Abstract: The present invention is concerned with the use of 5HT3 antagonists for promoting intestinal lavage, especially in combination with an osmotic agent.

Abstract: A magnesium citrate oral solution comprising citric acid in an amount greater than 10% weight/volume; magnesium hydroxide in an amount ranging from about 1.5-5% weight/volume; and water. Most preferably, the citric acid is present in an amount of about 10.9% weight/volume. Another embodiment of the present invention is a method of treating constipation in a patient in need thereof. The method of this embodiment comprises administering an effective amount of an oral composition that comprises citric acid in an amount greater than 10% weight/volume. Preferably, the composition of this embodiment comprises citric acid in an amount of 10.9% weight/volume.

Abstract: Beverages are provided and administered for producing LIS samples containing cells exfoliated from throughout the gut in sufficient numbers and free of interfering substances such as formed fecal particles for chemical assays and biologic assays for nucleic acid sequence information, and medical diagnosis. A kit is also provided for use by patients without assistance to produce a LIS sample suitable for analysis. A collection kit employs a sequence of the beverages and other ingested substances to produce preserved cells for medical diagnosis, allowing cytologic analysis of the LIS for diagnosis of foregut and hindgut disease. A preliminary cathartic lavage is used to cleanse a patient's digestive tract; at least one stool induced by the preliminary cathartic lavage is collected; and a final cathartic lavage is used to exfoliate and preserve cells from a patient's digestive tract.

Abstract: Disclosed is an evacuant possessing a sufficient evacuating effect in a small dose substantially without accompanying any irritation to bowel, irrespective of whether its preparations are in the form of tablets, liquids or elixirs, and having a suppressing action to odor of feces. This evacuant is characterized by containing an active magnesium oxide which has a BET value (surface area in terms of m2/g) of at least 21, preferably 21-50, more preferably 30-40 and is excellent in acid reactivity, and may preferably be incorporated with lactic acid bacteria, a mixture of sporolactobacteria and yeast extracts and/or oligosaccharides. The preparations are preferably in the form of liquids, granules, tablets and capsules.

Abstract: Methods of treatment and prevention of malarial infection caused by Plasmodium vivax, in which combinations of atovaquone, proguanil and primaquine are administered to a patient.

Abstract: A rapidly dispersible powder having use as a laxative and fiber supplement, comprising psyllium particles coated with gum arabic. The present invention also includes a method for making the powder that includes providing an effective quantity of gum arabic to a fluidized bed having the psyllium particles to make the rapidly dispersible powder. The present invention further includes a method for making a constipation treatment and a treatment for fiber supplementation.

Abstract: The present invention is concerned with the use of 5HT3 antagonists for promoting intestinal lavage, especially in combination with an osmotic agent.

Abstract: A method for increasing the fertility of a female mammal comprising administering to said female mammal an efficacious amount of tagatose. A method for promoting healthy fetal development in a pregnant female mammal which comprises administering to said mammal an efficacious amount of tagatose. A method for increasing the birth weight of a fetus in a pregnant female mammal which comprises administering to said mammal an efficacious amount of tagatose. A method for reducing excessive food intake of a pregnant female mammal which comprises administering to said mammal an efficacious amount of tagatose.

Abstract: A sodium phosphate bowel cleansing composition which has improved taste over conventional sodium phosphate compositions. The composition comprising free flowing monobasic sodium phosphate and dibasic sodium phosphate powders or crystals which have been coated with at least one edible grade film forming polymer such as hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose or polyethylene glycol.

Abstract: The subject invention encompasses baked compositions, a therapeutically effective dose of SMOOTH TEXTURE METAMUCIL.RTM. and one or more conventional additives used in dough containing compositions. The present invention also encompasses methods for regulating bowel function and/or providing laxation and/or treating hypercholesterolemia and/or increasing fiber consumption in humans or lower animals comprising orally administering the baked compositions according to this invention.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of a chemical agent of organic origin for reducing or eliminating changes in waistline or for reducing or eliminating constipation due to the taking of other agents. A preferred agent is a polyvinylpyrrolidone or povidone. By virtue of the invention, changes in waistline are reduced or eliminated during the day, as well as constipation which can be generated by the taking of other agents such as clays.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for preparation of a bifidobacteria-nourishing medium by subjecting a saccharide-based feedstock containing fructosyl units to flash flow conditions. The resulting shearform matrix is then treated to provide a medium having fructosyl-containing oligosaccharide. Preferably, the shearform matrix is treated by subjecting it to acid thermolysis conditions. Also provided is a method of nourishing mammalian alimentary tract for preferential growth of bifidobacteria. In addition, there is provided a medium for nourishing bifidobacteria and comestible products made therefrom.

Abstract: The invention provides a composition for the improvement of bowel function comprising polyethylene glycol and, preferably, a fiber bulking agent, in, preferably, at least about equal parts by weight of polyethylene glycol; an optional wetting agent to promote solubility/dispersability of the composition in liquid medium; and an optional gas-reducing agent to counteract effects of intestinal gas production attributable to the ingestion of poorly digestible fiber. The products are quickly effective, do not compromise bowel integrity, and are suitable for long-term use in the clinical or veterinary treatment of constipation and/or diarrhea.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition in a unit dosage form for peroral administration in a human or lower animal, having a gastrointestinal tract comprising a small intestine and a colon with a lumen therethrough having an inlet to the colon from the small intestine, comprising:a. a safe and effective amount of rapidly dissolving bisacodyl incorporated into or coated on the surface of a dosage form selected from the group consisting of a spherical substrate, an elliptical substrate, a hard capsule, or a compressed tablet, with a maximum diameter of about 3 mm to about 10 mm; andb. an enteric polymer coating material comprising at least one inner coating layer and one outer coating layer;wherein the dosage form has a smooth surface free from edges or sharp curves; the elliptical substrate and the hard capsule have a ratio of the long to short diameters of no greater than about 1.

Abstract: A combination bulk-forming and osmotic laxative is provided by combining a bulk-forming laxative in the form of psyllium hydrophilic mucilloid with an osmotic laxative such as lactitol. The addition of the osmotic laxative to the bulk-forming laxative with a binder solution and subsequent drying produces an improved laxative in granulate form which is directly compressible into tablets.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical laxative composition in unit dosage form, for peroral administration of picosulphate to a human or other animal subject, comprising a safe and effective amount of picosulphate in a rapidly dissolving matrix; and a proximal colonic delivery carrier which effects release of said picosulphate substantially near the junction between the small intestine and the colon or within the colon of said subject. This invention also involves methods for providing laxation for humans and other animals in need thereof by peroral administration of such compositions.

Abstract: Orally administered colonic purgative formulations and methods of its use for effecting partial or complete purgation of the colon in mammals, the formulations consisting of non-aqueous admixtures of monobasic, dibasic and tribasic sodium phosphates administered in tablet or capsule form in concentrations of from 0.01 to 0.85 grams per kilogram body weight. Preferred embodiments include the addition of binders, dispersants and buffers which do not adversely affect osmolality or effectiveness of the purgative formulations.

Abstract: A complex material of a hydrophilic polymer-silicate mineral comprising a carboxyl group containing hydrophilic polymer and a water swellable silicate mineral, and having a new absorption spectrum not existing in both starting materials in the IR-ray absorption spectrum within the range of 1000 to 1300 cm.sup.-1, and pharmaceutical and cosmetic compositions comprising same.

Abstract: An ingestible laxative composition comprising specified amounts of dioctyl sulfosuccinate and bulk fiber selected from the group consisting of psyllium, methylcellulose, polycarbophil, calcium polycarbophil, bran, malt soup extract, karaya, guar gum, and mixtures thereof, preferably in single dose form, is described.

Abstract: This invention relates to a pharmaceutical laxative composition in unit dosage form, for peroral administration of sennosides to a human or other animal subject, comprising a safe and effective amount of sennosides in a rapidly dissolving matrix; and a proximal colonic delivery carrier which effects release of said sennosides substantially near the junction between the small intestine and the colon or within the colon of said subject. This invention also involves methods for providing laxation for humans and other animals in need thereof by peroral administration of such compositions.

Abstract: A laxative composition in powder or tablet form, having a pleasant odor and taste. The composition comprises sodium bicarbonate, monobasic sodium phosphate in stoichiometric excess, and a pineapple flavoring composition containing also Magnasweet 185 and sodium saccharin. A minor amount of citric or malic acid may be present.

Abstract: A dietary fibre composition comprising a water-soluble, nononic cellulose ether having a cloud point not higher than 35.degree. C. in combination with a charged surfactant and optional additives in water, the ratio of surfactant to cellulose ether being 1:5 to 1:25 by weight, is a liquid solution at room temperature and a gel in the gastrointestinal tract at body temperature. The dietary fibre composition can be used as a bulk laxative and also as a slimming aid.

Abstract: Psyllium husk comprising particle sizes distributed such that: less than about 15% is larger than about 80 mesh, at least about 45% is within the range of from about 80 mesh to about 200 mesh, and less than about 40% is smaller than about 200 mesh. In addition, psyllium-containing products for oral administration comprising small particle size psyllium husk according to the present invention are described.