What is the purpose of laxatives in medication administration?

The primary purpose of laxatives in medication administration is to promote bowel movements. Laxatives are substances that help facilitate bowel evacuation by increasing the frequency of defecation or softening the stool. They are commonly used to treat constipation or to prepare the bowel for certain medical procedures. By either stimulating the intestinal muscles, increasing the water content in the stool, or lubricating the intestines, laxatives effectively aid in the movement of waste through the digestive tract.

In contrast, the other options pertain to different therapeutic functions. For example, relieving muscle pain would typically involve analgesics or anti-inflammatory medications rather than laxatives. Reducing inflammation is usually treated with anti-inflammatory drugs, while combating dehydration commonly involves hydration solutions or electrolyte replenishment rather than the use of laxatives. Therefore, the focus of laxatives on stimulating bowel function delineates their specific role in the realm of medication administration.