Usage Note
Abführmittel are medications or substances that stimulate bowel movements, used to treat constipation (Verstopfung). Types include bulk-forming agents (Quellmittel), osmotic laxatives, and stimulant laxatives. Long-term use of stimulant laxatives is discouraged as it can cause electrolyte imbalances.
Examples
"Der Arzt riet ihm, vor der Darmspiegelung ein Abführmittel einzunehmen."
Natural Translation
The doctor advised him to take a laxative before the colonoscopy.
Literal Translation
The doctor advised him, before the colonoscopy a laxative to take in.

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