Co-danthramer
Co-danthramer is a combination stimulant laxative containing dantron with poloxamer, used principally to treat constipation in palliative care, particularly opioid-induced constipation.
ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.
Clinical monograph
How it works
Dantron stimulates colonic peristalsis by acting on the myenteric plexus, while the poloxamer acts as a faecal softening and wetting agent.
Prescribing in practice
- Restrict use to palliative care patients because dantron is potentially carcinogenic (based on rodent data) and may discolour the urine red.
- Avoid in patients with faecal impaction or intestinal obstruction, and avoid prolonged skin contact as dantron can cause a perianal contact dermatitis, especially in incontinent patients.
- Counsel that prolonged contact with skin, including in those who are incontinent or who wear napkins, should be avoided to reduce irritation and excoriation.
Monitoring
Monitor bowel frequency and stool consistency and review for skin irritation, dehydration or electrolyte disturbance with prolonged use.
Counselling the patient
- Expect the urine to turn a reddish colour, which is harmless.
- Wipe away any spilled liquid promptly and protect the skin to prevent soreness.
- Maintain a good fluid intake.
Evidence & guidelines
Its place in therapy is established by clinical experience in palliative care and current prescribing references rather than by large trials.
Reference: Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.