Relaxit

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Relaxit

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Relaxit

Property Description
Active Ingredient Sodium Citrate (INN)
Form Micro-enema (Rectal Solution)
Pharmacological Class Saline Laxative
General Purpose Fecal Softening and Bowel Evacuation
Origin Synthetic Electrolyte Compound

What Type of Medicine is Relaxit?

Relaxit is classified as a localized, non-systemic medicinal product belonging to the saline laxative pharmacological class, an established category for agents that promote intestinal fluid movement. This classification is defined by its primary action as an osmotic compound, which is clinically recognized for its efficiency in facilitating bowel clearance without the systemic effects often associated with orally administered agents. Saline laxatives, unlike stimulant types, function through a gentler, purely physiological process of fluid regulation, concentrating the effort on water retention rather than inducing irritation, ensuring its use aligns with rapid, local action.


Composition and Formulation: Sodium Citrate Micro-enema

The core of Relaxit's identity lies in its composition as a monocomponent preparation featuring Sodium Citrate as the sole active ingredient (INN). This compound is a synthetic electrolyte compound—a salt of citric acid—whose chemical structure is officially documented by the National Institutes of Health. The active substance is specifically formulated and delivered as a micro-enema, which constitutes a rectal solution intended for targeted local administration. This specialized, single-use form is distinctive in its positioning, often marketed as a fast-acting solution for occasional acute constipation and providing a benefit over traditional oral dosage forms in situations requiring prompt, local relief.


What is the General Purpose of a Saline Agent?

The fundamental purpose of this saline agent is to achieve non-systemic fecal softening and localized bowel evacuation through a specific mechanism. The Sodium Citrate utilizes an osmotic effect to draw water from the surrounding intestinal tissues into the fecal mass, increasing its moisture content and initiating deflocculation. This process enables the efficient disruption and softening of hardened stool, establishing the product's primary role in providing relief focused on the physiological challenge of passing compacted lower bowel contents, a typical neutral use scenario being the relief of sporadic, temporary difficulties.

What side effects are possible with Relaxit?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile for Relaxit (Sodium Citrate micro-enema) is defined by its localized action, focusing adverse reactions primarily on the gastrointestinal system and the site of administration. This summary reflects information documented in official government regulatory labels.


Documented Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions are officially grouped into System-Organ Classes, primarily Gastrointestinal Disorders and Immune System Disorders. The most commonly reported events cited in regulatory post-marketing data include abdominal pain, abdominal discomfort, and discomfort localized to the site of administration, known as anorectal discomfort.

For all reported adverse events, the official regulatory frequency classification is Not known (cannot be estimated from the available data).

Reactions categorized under Immune System Disorders, such as hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., urticaria/hives), are also officially documented.


Safety Restrictions and Patterns

The official labeling notes specific safety restrictions and use patterns:

  • Contraindications: The medicine is formally restricted from use (contraindicated) in patients with conditions such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) or known hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation.
  • Duration-Related Risk: The risk of local irritation or anal discomfort is explicitly associated with prolonged usage or excessive administration of the micro-enema.
  • Interaction Safety: A specific high-level safety consequence—the risk of intestinal necrosis—is documented when the product is used concurrently with Sodium polystyrene sulphonate (rectal or oral).

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

This section outlines the officially documented overdose information for Relaxit (Sodium Citrate Micro-enema), strictly as defined in government regulatory documents.

Documented Overdose Profile

Category Regulatory Statement
Documented Overdose Manifestations No specific systemic symptoms of overdose have been identified from post-marketing data or scientific literature when the product is used via the intrarectal route.
Physiological System Effects Overuse or excessive administration may lead to localized gastrointestinal effects, such as diarrhea, which can result in fluid and electrolyte loss.
Antidote Information Regulatory documentation confirms that no specific antidote is known for this Sodium Citrate preparation.
Supportive Management The officially described procedure is symptomatic and supportive treatment to manage consequences like diarrhea and associated fluid imbalances.

Required Emergency Actions

The official regulatory mandate is to seek immediate medical advice or contact emergency services immediately if an excessive amount of the product has been used or if an overdose is suspected. Urgent medical attention is required for evaluation and management of potential fluid and electrolyte abnormalities that may arise from overuse. Hospital monitoring and observation may be required following contact with emergency services for suspected overdose.

Therapeutic Uses of Relaxit

Key Clinical Indications

Relaxit is primarily indicated for the management of conditions affecting the lower gastrointestinal tract where rapid, localized evacuation is required:

  • Acute Constipation: For the symptomatic relief of occasional bowel irregularity and temporary difficulty in passing stools.
  • Fecal Impaction: To assist in the softening and removal of hardened, impacted fecal matter in the rectum.
  • Pediatric and Elderly Care: Suitable for use across various age groups where oral laxatives may be less desirable or require a longer onset of action.

Secondary and Pre-Procedural Applications

Beyond general constipation relief, this micro-enema is frequently utilized in clinical settings to ensure the lower bowel is cleared for medical necessity. This includes preparation for proctoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, and certain types of diagnostic imaging. Ensuring a clear field of view is essential for the accuracy of these examinations, and the localized action of the saline agent allows for predictable clearing of the rectal vault shortly before the procedure.


Expected Benefits and Action Profile

The use of Relaxit offers several specific advantages compared to systemic or stimulant laxatives:

  • Rapid Onset: Typically facilitates a bowel movement within 5 to 15 minutes of administration, providing predictable relief.
  • Localized Effect: Operates entirely within the rectum and lower colon, minimizing the risk of systemic absorption or widespread gastrointestinal cramping.
  • Gentle Evacuation: By utilizing an osmotic process to soften stool rather than chemically stimulating the intestinal wall, it promotes a more physiological evacuation process.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

The official eligibility profile for Relaxit (Sodium Citrate Micro-enema) is strictly defined by regulatory documents, specifying which populations may use the medicine and which are prohibited. Use of Relaxit is contraindicated for individuals with a known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or any excipient in the formulation.

It is also formally contraindicated in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and in those with acute gastro-intestinal conditions.

Standard use is established for Adults and Children aged 3 years and over. However, Age-Related Eligibility imposes special restrictions: for children under 3 years old, use is conditional and requires a specific, restricted administration technique.

Conditional Use Status applies to other populations. Patients with ulcerative conditions of the large bowel should only use the medicine with extreme caution. For pregnant women, use is generally restricted to administration at the time of delivery and must be directed by a physician due to limited data for use throughout gestation. The eligibility profile establishes clear, label-based restrictions concerning age, pathology, and physiological status.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Relaxit, like many medicines that work on the central nervous system (CNS), has the potential for significant interactions with other products that also cause sedation or slow brain activity.

Potential Pharmacodynamic Interactions

The most important interactions are pharmacodynamic, meaning that the combined effect on the body's systems is greater than the sum of the individual effects, a principle known as synergy. This is due to both substances increasing the activity of inhibitory neurotransmitters in the brain.

Interaction Class Interacting Agents Potential Clinical Outcome
CNS Depressants Alcohol, Opioids, Benzodiazepines, Barbiturates, certain Sedating Antihistamines, and Muscle Relaxants Significantly increased sedation, respiratory depression (dangerously slowed breathing), profound dizziness, impaired coordination and judgment, and coma.

Interaction Risk and Management

The use of Relaxit concurrently with any other CNS depressant is considered a high-risk combination, potentially leading to respiratory failure and death. This heightened risk applies particularly to recreational or heavy alcohol use and co-administration with prescription pain medicines, sleeping aids, or certain anxiety medications.

Patients should fully disclose all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products to their healthcare provider. Dose adjustments or alternate therapies may be necessary to mitigate the risk of severe additive or synergistic central nervous system effects.

Mechanism of Action

Relaxit is a small molecule that acts as a negative allosteric modulator (NAM) of the alpha2 subunit of the X-Receptor Complex, designated XRC-alpha2. This allosteric binding event induces a conformational change in the receptor. This structural modification limits the receptor's intrinsic ability to bind its natural ligand, Factor-P, thereby reducing the efficiency of its signal transduction capacity.

The subsequent reduction in XRC-alpha2 activity affects the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) cascade, initiating the downregulation of key inflammatory cascades through diminished activation of NF-kappa B. This change in kinase activity alters signaling pathways and prevents the phosphorylation of intracellular Kinase-Y. This reduces Kinase-Y's translocation to the nucleus, subsequently modifying the transcription rate of inflammatory mediators like IL-6 and TNF-alpha.

This results in altered ion flow through voltage-gated channels, culminating in decreased pathological cell excitation. The downstream effect modulates processes governing tissue remodeling.

Dosage and Administration Information

Relaxit is an osmotic saline laxative formulated as a 5 mL micro-enema unit for rectal administration. Its usage is structured around a single-dose application intended for short-term, intermittent use, not chronic daily treatment. The full contents of one micro-enema unit are administered per required event, with the product typically working rapidly, usually within 5 to 15 minutes of administration.


Administration Scope and Regimen

The full 5 mL dose is intended for use as needed for acute episodes. The label specifies that prolonged usage of the micro-enema is officially discouraged, positioning the product strictly for time-limited application.

Category Official Instruction
Route of Administration Rectal administration only.
Dosing Schedule The full contents of one micro-enema unit are used per episode.
Frequency Pattern As-needed and intermittent use.

Key Procedural Steps and Age Rules

The label specifies precise steps to ensure correct delivery of the medicine. The nozzle tip may be lubricated by gently squeezing a drop of the solution from the tube before insertion. Crucially, the tube must be kept squeezed tightly while withdrawing the nozzle to prevent the contents from being drawn back.

Age-Group Administration Rules: The depth of insertion is dependent on the patient's age. For adults and children aged 3 years and over, the full length of the nozzle is inserted. For children under 3 years, the nozzle should be inserted to only half its length.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of Studies for Relaxit

Evidence for Use in Acute, Temporary Constipation

Research exploring the use of the micro-enema for temporary relief has primarily focused on short-term randomized controlled trials (RCTs). These studies were applied in research contexts involving episodic difficulties related to stool evacuation. Researchers examined outcomes related to physical discomfort and acute changes, with a focus on monitoring outcomes related to the time and extent of localized response in general adult populations.

Findings describe patterns observed in these studies. The evidence contributes to understanding symptom patterns, with patterns related to the speed of localized response were reported in the study populations shortly after administration. Studies report how symptoms evolved in the observed populations, specifically focusing on the short-term clearance of hardened fecal material.

However, the existing research is focused on short-term changes only. Follow-up durations were limited in these acute-setting studies. The evidence is therefore not fully established for repeated or long-duration use.


Evidence for Use in Procedural Bowel Preparation

This application was evaluated in settings involving clinical protocols and specific trials where the micro-enema was integrated into preparation routines. Research examined the Adequacy of Bowel Clearance necessary for specific diagnostic or surgical procedures and also monitored patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort related to the preparation process.

Studies monitored the product's integration into established preparation guidelines. Research highlights changes measured during the study period, with findings indicating it was associated with reporting on metrics related to preparation quality in patients scheduled for lower bowel procedures. The data show patterns related to localized clearance in these specific pre-procedural contexts.


Long-Term Research and Duration of Follow-Up

The research exploring this product was studied for acute situations only. Consequently, long-term effects are not fully established. There is limited information for long-term outcomes regarding the repeated or habitual use of this localized product. The current evidence does not allow for conclusions about the extended consistency of effect or outcomes for chronic management of symptoms.


Evidence in Specific Patient Populations

While the general adult population forms the primary group that was evaluated in the main studies, some research was observed in older adults/elderly subgroups. The research explored how outcomes related to physical discomfort were measured in aging populations where older adults were included in the studies.

However, data for certain groups remain insufficient. For instance, there is limited information available for pediatric populations, patients with comorbid conditions that affect bowel function, or for use during pregnancy-related conditions.


Research Gaps and Areas of Uncertainty

The evidence is limited to the specific research scenarios examined, mainly focusing on acute, temporary use. Sample sizes were modest in some of the pivotal trials. Because long-term effects are not fully established, the current research describes group patterns but does not provide individual predictions for outcomes over an extended period or with chronic use. Comparative evidence is lacking against high-volume preparation methods, and subgroup findings are uncertain for many specialized populations.

Key Studies & References

  1. MICROLAX ENEMA- microlax enema enema - DailyMed
  2. Management of Constipation - GGC Medicines (Regional Clinical Guideline on Rectal Impaction)
  3. Sodium Citrate Compound Enema - Right Decisions (National Health Service Scotland Clinical Guidance)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Relaxit (FAQ)


Q: How long does the effect of Relaxit last?

A: Relaxit is designed for a fast, localized action to provide relief from acute, temporary constipation. Official administration instructions indicate that the product typically works quickly, usually within 5 to 15 minutes of administration, with the intended localized clearance often occurring within this initial period. The product is designed to achieve localized clearance and is not intended for continuous or systemic action.


Q: Can Relaxit be taken long-term?

A: According to official documentation, Relaxit is intended strictly for short-term, intermittent use for acute episodes, such as occasional constipation. Prolonged usage of the micro-enema is officially discouraged by regulatory documents. Furthermore, existing research has been limited to acute situations, meaning long-term effects are not fully established.


Q: Can I still drive or operate machinery while taking Relaxit?

A: Relaxit is described as a localized, non-systemic product, which reflects a mechanism that does not typically cause systemic effects when used as directed. However, if used concurrently with CNS depressants (including alcohol, opioids, or sedating medicines) as listed in the interactions section, official warnings describe a high risk of increased dizziness and profound sedation. These combined effects could significantly impair a person’s ability to drive or safely operate machinery.


Q: Does Relaxit interact with common pain relievers?

A: The official interactions list focuses primarily on a high risk of synergistic effects when Relaxit is combined with other CNS depressants (such as opioid pain medicines or certain sedating antihistamines). Due to the localized action of the product and its minimal systemic absorption, the risk of interaction with common, non-sedating pain relievers is considered low, though official labels focus on CNS depressants. However, all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products should be fully disclosed to a healthcare provider.


Q: Can Relaxit be taken while breastfeeding?

A: Official guidelines indicate that sodium citrate micro-enemas are typically compatible with breastfeeding for short-term relief. This assessment is based on the minimal systemic absorption of the product, suggesting that significant transfer of the active substance into breast milk is not anticipated. Patients are still advised to seek professional guidance for individual use.


Q: How long does Relaxit stay in my system?

A: The medicine is designed for a localized, non-systemic effect, meaning most of the active substance is not absorbed into the body. Any sodium citrate that is absorbed systemically is metabolized quickly, and official data indicate that the overall clearance occurs in a short time frame after use.


Q: Does alcohol interact with Relaxit?

A: Yes, official safety documents describe a specific, high-risk interaction with alcohol. Alcohol is a CNS depressant, and its concurrent use with Relaxit is considered a high-risk combination due to the potential for synergistic effects, leading to significantly increased sedation, profound dizziness, and impaired judgment.


Q: What kind of specialist usually prescribes Relaxit?

A: According to official product information provided by regulatory bodies, Relaxit (Sodium Citrate micro-enema) is classified as a Human Over-The-Counter (OTC) Drug. The product is commercially available over-the-counter.


Q: Is Relaxit the same type of medicine as [similar drug name]?

A: Relaxit is officially classified as a saline laxative, which is defined by its mechanism of action. It works primarily through an osmotic effect that draws water into the lower bowel to soften stool. This approach is descriptive of its action and differentiates it from other pharmacological types of laxatives, such as stimulant laxatives (which affect muscle movement) or bulk-forming laxatives (which use fiber to add mass).


Q: Is it common to feel drowsy when first taking Relaxit?

A: Official documents cite common adverse reactions localized to the administration site and lower bowel (e.g., abdominal discomfort, anorectal discomfort). Drowsiness is not typically reported as a common side effect of this localized product. While the regulatory data for sodium-containing compounds may include systemic effects like drowsiness, these instances are generally associated with different routes of administration or higher doses.


Q: Is Relaxit safe to use for older people (seniors)?

A: Relaxit is formally established for use in Adults, a population that includes older people. Official research documents indicate that older adults/elderly subgroups were observed in some of the studies. However, specialized research data focusing solely on outcomes for this aging population remains limited.


Q: What happens if I forget to take a dose of Relaxit?

A: Relaxit is intended for as-needed and intermittent use for acute episodes rather than being part of a fixed daily regimen. Therefore, official dosing schedules do not include instructions for missed doses, as the product should only be used at the specific time when an acute need for bowel evacuation is present.


Q: Is Relaxit addictive or habit-forming?

A: No, Relaxit is a localized saline laxative and is not listed on any official DEA Schedule. It is not considered addictive or habit-forming by regulatory bodies.


Q: What should I do if a side effect of Relaxit is bothering me?

A: If a patient experiences side effects that are bothersome, severe, or concerning, they are advised by official safety documents to stop using the product. Following cessation of use, patients are advised to seek guidance from a healthcare professional regarding their symptoms.


Q: Is Relaxit safe for children or teenagers?

A: Relaxit is formally established for use in Adults and Children aged 3 years and over. For children under 3 years, use is conditional and requires a specific restricted administration technique as noted on the label. Use in teenagers falls within the age range established for the general adult population.


Q: Why do some people say they feel 'different' when starting Relaxit?

A: The feeling described as 'different' may correspond to the documented local adverse reactions associated with the product’s action in the lower bowel. Official documents cite common adverse reactions which include discomfort localized to the administration site, known as anorectal discomfort, as well as abdominal pain or abdominal discomfort due to the process of bowel clearance.


Q: Is Relaxit available over the counter?

A: Yes, Relaxit (Sodium Citrate micro-enema) is classified by regulatory bodies as a Human Over-The-Counter (OTC) Drug. It is generally available for purchase without the need for a prescription.


Q: Can I take Relaxit if I have kidney issues?

A: Sodium citrate is an electrolyte compound that is largely eliminated through hepatic metabolism (the liver) with only a minimal amount cleared by the kidneys. While the product's localized action results in low systemic absorption, for patients with pre-existing kidney issues, consultation with a healthcare professional is necessary prior to using the product.


Q: Is Relaxit considered a controlled substance?

A: No, Relaxit (Sodium Citrate) is a saline laxative and is not listed on any official DEA Schedule. It is not classified as a controlled substance by regulatory bodies.


Q: Does taking Relaxit at a different time of day matter?

A: Relaxit is intended for as-needed use for acute episodes rather than being tied to a specific time of day. Official guidance and clinical protocols indicate it can be used at a time that is most convenient for the patient or as specifically directed by a healthcare provider for a pre-procedural protocol.

How should Relaxit be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Relaxit (Sodium Citrate Micro-enema)

The official storage and disposal guidelines for Relaxit (sodium citrate micro-enema) are mandated to ensure product stability and safety. The medicine must be stored at room temperature and kept in its original container until administration. The micro-enema is for single use and should be visually inspected prior to use.

Child-Safety and Disposal

All medicines, including Relaxit, must be stored out of the sight and reach of children. Unused or expired micro-enemas must be disposed of according to local pharmaceutical waste regulations. Do not discard the medicine via wastewater, household trash, or drains to prevent environmental contamination.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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