Eyedrops: The Unexpected Laxative?

The belief that eye drops can be used as a laxative is a dangerous urban legend. While certain eye drops can make people need to defecate more, they can also cause diarrhoea and dehydration. The active ingredient in some eye drops, tetrahydrozoline, is poisonous and can cause severe health issues including hypothermia, difficulty breathing, hypertension, hypotension, seizures, tremors, and even death.

The urban legend about eye drops causing diarrhoea

The urban legend that eye drops can cause diarrhoea has been around for decades. It has been popularised by films such as *Wedding Crashers* and *I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell*, and TV shows like *Orange Is the New Black* and *Dead Boy Detectives*. In these, characters who consume eye drops experience severe gastrointestinal distress, including explosive diarrhoea.

This myth is especially pervasive with the Visine brand of eye drops. The active ingredient in Visine is tetrahydrozoline hydrochloride, a vasoconstrictor that reduces eye redness by constricting the eye's superficial blood vessels. While tetrahydrozoline is not known to cause diarrhoea, it can have severe and harmful side effects if ingested, including:

• Dangerously low body temperature (hypothermia)
• Difficulty breathing or cessation of breathing
• Elevated blood pressure (hypertension) followed by sudden low blood pressure (hypotension)
• Seizures and tremors
• Nausea and vomiting
• Coma

Despite the lack of evidence that eye drops have a laxative effect, many people still believe in this urban legend. Some even go so far as to spike others' drinks with eye drops as a prank, hoping to induce diarrhoea. This is extremely dangerous and can lead to serious health problems and even death.

While eye drops are not a laxative, it is important to follow the instructions and warnings on the packaging. Eye drops are meant for external use only and should not be ingested. If someone does ingest eye drops, it is important to seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control centre.

The active ingredients in eye drops

• Tetrahydrozoline hydrochloride: This is a vasoconstrictor that reduces eye redness by constricting the superficial blood vessels in the eye. It is found in the original formulation of Visine.
• Oxymetazoline: This active ingredient is used in some Visine products, including those for contact lens wearers and those that provide artificial tears.
• Naphazoline: Naphazoline is another active ingredient found in certain Visine eye drops.
• Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC): CMC is a demulcent that protects and lubricates the eye. It is the primary active ingredient in Thera Tears and some Refresh brand eye drops.
• Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (Hypromellose): Hypromellose is also a demulcent and is found in GenTeal and some Refresh brand eye drops.
• Dextran: This active ingredient is present in GenTeal and some Refresh brand eye drops.
• Glycerin: Glycerin is a common active ingredient in artificial tears, including GenTeal, Soothe, Oasis, and some Refresh and Systane brand eye drops.
• Polyethylene glycol: Polyethylene glycol is found in Blink, Systane, and some Refresh and Systane brand eye drops.
• Povidone: Povidone is the primary active ingredient in Soothe Hydration and Maximum Hydration brand eye drops.
• Polyvinyl alcohol: Polyvinyl alcohol is another active ingredient in Soothe Hydration and Maximum Hydration brand eye drops.
• Propylene glycol: This ingredient is found in Systane, Soothe, and some Refresh brand eye drops.

It is important to note that different brands and types of eye drops may have different active ingredients, and it is always essential to read the label and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

While eye drops are designed for external use on the eyes and are not meant to be ingested, there is a common misconception that eye drops can be used as a laxative. This belief is not supported by evidence, and ingesting eye drops can lead to serious medical problems, including cardiac issues and damage to the body.

The dangers of ingesting eye drops

Ingesting eye drops is extremely dangerous and can lead to serious health issues and even death. Eye drops often contain ingredients such as tetrahydrozoline, which is similar to clonidine, a medication used to lower blood pressure. When applied directly to the eye, tetrahydrozoline causes the constriction of blood vessels, reducing redness. However, when ingested, it can lead to a host of dangerous and even life-threatening symptoms.

The belief that eye drops, particularly the brand Visine, can cause diarrhoea has been perpetuated by popular culture, including films and TV shows. This has led to real-life instances of people spiking others' drinks with eye drops in an attempt to induce diarrhoea as a form of revenge or a "prank". However, this practice can have severe and unexpected consequences. While diarrhoea is not a common side effect of ingesting eye drops, other serious symptoms can occur, including:

• Dangerously low body temperature (hypothermia)
• Breathing difficulties or cessation of breathing
• Elevated blood pressure (hypertension) followed by a sudden drop (hypotension)
• Seizures and tremors
• Nausea and vomiting
• Coma

The ingestion of eye drops, especially in young children, can lead to significant toxicity and severe depression of the central nervous system. Even small amounts can be harmful, and medical attention should be sought immediately if eye drops are swallowed. It is important to always use eye drops according to the package label and never ingest them.

The belief that eye drops cause diarrhoea is a harmful urban legend, and it is crucial that people understand the true dangers associated with ingesting eye drops to prevent accidental poisonings and intentional misuse.

The correct use of eye drops

Preparation:

Before using eye drops, it is essential to gather the necessary supplies, including the eye drops, a tissue or cloth, and hand sanitiser or soap and water. Wash your hands thoroughly and dry them with a clean towel or paper towel. If soap and water are unavailable, hand sanitiser can be used instead. Ensure you have a clean surface to place the eye drop bottle on.

Administering the Drops:

Start by gently shaking the bottle if instructed to do so on the label or by a healthcare professional. Remove the cap and place the bottle on its side on the clean surface. Check the dropper tip for any dirt or contamination; if it is dirty, dispose of the bottle and obtain a new one.

To administer the drops, tilt your head back or lie down flat. Pull down your lower eyelid with your finger to create a pouch or pocket. Hold the bottle over your eye, ensuring the dropper tip is facing down and close to your eye without touching it. Look up and squeeze the bottle gently to release a single drop into the pouch.

After Administration:

Close your eye gently and tilt your face towards the floor for two to three minutes. Avoid blinking, moving your eyeball, or squeezing your eyelids tightly. Apply gentle pressure to the inner corner of the eye with your finger to prevent the medication from draining into your nasal passages. Use a tissue or cloth to wipe away any excess liquid from around your eyes.

If a second eye drop is required, wait at least five to ten minutes before administering it. Replace the cap on the bottle, and avoid touching or cleaning the dropper tip. Wash your hands again to remove any medication residue.

Storage and Expiration:

Store the eye drops as directed on the label or by a healthcare professional. Be mindful of the expiration date, especially for prescription eye drops, and discard them safely after they have expired.

Precautions:

It is crucial to use eye drops correctly to ensure the medication's effectiveness and avoid complications. Do not allow the dropper tip to touch your eye or any other surface to prevent contamination. Never share eye drops with others to reduce the risk of spreading germs and infections. Additionally, avoid wearing contact lenses while using eye drops unless specifically instructed to do so by a doctor or pharmacist.

Understanding the Purpose:

Eye drops are used to treat a range of eye conditions, including infections, minor injuries, and conditions such as glaucoma. They can also be used to relieve dry or red eyes. Depending on the issue, eye drops may be prescribed by a doctor or purchased over the counter.

It is worth noting that eye drops are intended for external use only and should not be ingested. Ingesting eye drops, such as those containing tetrahydrozoline HCl, can cause severe medical issues, including cardiac problems, seizures, and depression of the central nervous system.

Natural laxatives

• Understand the role of natural laxatives:
• Explore different types of natural laxatives:

There are several types of natural laxatives that work in different ways. Bulk-forming laxatives, such as Metamucil and Citrucel, move through the body undigested, absorbing water to form stools. Stool softeners, like docusate sodium and docusate calcium, increase water absorption in stools, making them softer. Lubricant laxatives, such as mineral oil, coat the surfaces of stools and the intestinal lining to retain moisture and aid passage. Osmotic-type laxatives, including milk of magnesia and glycerin, help the colon retain water, increasing bowel movement frequency. Saline laxatives, such as liquid magnesium citrate, draw water into the small intestine to encourage bowel movements.

Incorporate natural laxative foods into your diet:

The best natural laxatives can be found in certain foods. Eating fibre-rich foods is crucial, as they bulk up your stool and make it easier to pass. Chia seeds, berries, legumes, flaxseeds, and leafy greens like spinach and kale are excellent sources of fibre. Additionally, kefir, a fermented milk product, contains probiotics that improve regularity and stool consistency. Prunes and prune juice are also proven natural remedies for constipation due to their sorbitol and fibre content. Coffee, both caffeinated and decaffeinated, stimulates the muscles in the digestive system and may increase the urge to go to the bathroom.

Prioritize hydration:

Staying hydrated is essential for preventing and relieving constipation. Dehydration can lead to constipation, so be sure to drink enough water throughout the day. Carbonated water may be even more effective than plain water at relieving constipation, but avoid sugary carbonated drinks as they can have harmful health effects.

Make lifestyle changes:

In addition to dietary changes, incorporating regular physical activity into your routine can help prevent constipation. Exercise may reduce constipation symptoms and improve digestive health. Maintaining a healthy diet and active lifestyle can help keep your digestive system functioning optimally.

Be cautious and informed:

While natural laxatives offer many benefits, it's important to be cautious. Natural stimulant laxatives, such as those containing senna, are not recommended for long-term use as they can lead to tolerance and may cause liver toxicity if used in high doses or for extended periods. Additionally, using stimulant laxatives too frequently may lead to muscle weakness and dependency. Always follow instructions and dosage recommendations, and consult a doctor if your symptoms persist or worsen.

Frequently asked questions