Laxatives And Edibles: A Quick Fix?

There is no scientific evidence that laxatives make edibles work faster. However, there are a few ways to make edibles kick in faster. Firstly, consuming edibles on an empty stomach allows them to enter your circulation faster, but this is not recommended for first-time users. Secondly, sublingual cannabis products such as tinctures, sprays, strips, and pills are absorbed through the mucosal membranes in the mouth and are therefore faster-acting than edibles. Thirdly, cannabis-infused beverages are also a faster-acting alternative to edibles as they can be absorbed sublingually while also moving through the digestive tract more quickly than lipid-packed edibles. Lastly, specially formulated solid edibles, such as certain chocolates, are designed to provide a faster-acting high by allowing THC to bypass the stomach and enter the small intestine more quickly.

Laxatives can cause side effects such as bloating, gas, and stomach cramps

Laxatives are medicines that help people have a bowel movement if they are constipated. They work by softening hard stools or stimulating the bowels to get moving. However, laxatives can also cause several side effects, including bloating, gas, and stomach cramps.

Bloating is one of the most common side effects associated with laxative use. It occurs when the laxative causes an increase in gas or fluid in the stomach or intestines. This can lead to a feeling of fullness or tightness in the abdomen and may be uncomfortable or painful.

Gas, or flatulence, is another common side effect of laxatives. It is caused by the same mechanisms that lead to bloating—an increase in gas production or retention in the digestive tract. Passing gas is a normal part of the digestive process, but laxatives can cause excessive or uncomfortable gas for some individuals.

Stomach cramps, or abdominal pain, are also frequently reported by those who use laxatives. This is especially common with stimulant laxatives, which work by activating the nerves that control the muscles in the colon. For individuals who overuse laxatives, stomach cramps can become severe and may even be a sign of a more serious condition, such as laxative dependence or gut dysmotility.

It is important to note that while laxatives can be effective in treating constipation, they should be used with caution. They are typically recommended for occasional or short-term use only, as prolonged use can lead to side effects and even worsen constipation. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before taking laxatives, especially if one experiences any adverse side effects.

Laxatives are available in different forms, including pills, powders, liquids, suppositories, and enemas

Laxatives are available in various forms, including pills, powders, liquids, suppositories, and enemas. Each form has distinct characteristics and methods of administration, catering to different preferences and medical needs. Here is an overview of each type:

Pills

Laxatives in pill form are typically capsules or tablets that individuals take orally. They are convenient and discrete, making them a popular choice for many people. It is important to follow the instructions on the packaging or those provided by a healthcare professional when taking laxatives in pill form.

Powders

Powdered laxatives offer flexibility in administration as they can be mixed with water or other liquids before consumption. This form is particularly useful for those who prefer to ingest their laxatives in a dissolved state or who have difficulty swallowing pills.

Liquids or Syrups

Liquid laxatives are measured and consumed directly, providing a convenient option for individuals who prefer not to swallow pills or mix powders. They are readily available over the counter and are often flavoured to make them more palatable.

Suppositories

Suppositories are small, dissolvable capsules containing laxatives that are inserted directly into the rectum. This method allows for rapid absorption and relief, typically within minutes. However, it is important to note that suppositories may carry a higher risk of side effects such as diarrhoea and stomach cramps.

Enemas

Enemas are another form of laxative administered through the rectum. They come in small, squeezable tubes, and the medication is injected into the rectum by squeezing the tube. Enemas work quickly, often providing relief within minutes, but they also carry a higher risk of side effects similar to suppositories.

It is important to remember that laxatives should be used as directed and not overused or misused to prevent potential side effects and complications. They are generally recommended as a "plan B" option when lifestyle changes, such as increasing fibre intake, fluid consumption, and physical activity, do not provide sufficient relief from constipation.

Laxatives are not safe for everyone and should not be given to children unless recommended by a doctor

Laxatives are a group of medications designed to relieve constipation, making it easier to pass hard stools. They are available in oral and rectal forms, with oral medications coming in pill or powder form, and rectal laxatives in the form of suppositories and enemas. While laxatives are relatively safe to use in children, they should only be given to a child if recommended by a doctor.

Laxatives are not FDA-approved for children, as there is not enough data from large studies on their safety in kids. However, they are well-tolerated and often recommended by healthcare providers when lifestyle changes, such as increasing water and fiber intake, are not enough to relieve constipation. Polyethylene glycol 3350 (Miralax) is the first-choice treatment for constipation in children. It is considered safe and well-tolerated, but it should be taken daily and can take up to a couple of days to show results.

It is important to be mindful of the side effects of laxatives. Common side effects include worsening constipation when not taken with enough water, diarrhea, and rectal discomfort. There have also been concerns about potential behavioural changes in children who use laxatives with the active ingredient PEG 3350 (Miralax and other generic laxatives). While the amounts of ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol in these laxatives are very small and considered safe, the FDA is investigating whether they contain enough contaminants to cause significant side effects or harm to children.

Therefore, it is crucial to consult a doctor before giving laxatives to a child, as they can advise on the best treatment option and help monitor the frequency of dosages. It is also important to be aware of the signs of constipation, which include pooping less than normal, difficulty pushing out stool, pain when using the bathroom, feeling full or bloated, and seeing streaks of bright red blood when wiping.

Laxative overuse can lead to an electrolyte imbalance, chronic constipation, and intestinal blockage

Laxatives are medicines that treat constipation by softening stools or stimulating the bowels to pass out faeces. They are typically used to provide relief from constipation, but their overuse can lead to several health complications.

One of the most common side effects of laxative overuse is an electrolyte imbalance. Electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, chloride, and magnesium, are essential body chemicals and minerals that help regulate nerve and muscle function, including those in the colon and heart. Laxatives can cause an abnormal loss of these electrolytes, leading to disturbances in their balance. This imbalance can result in weakness, irregular heartbeats, and even sudden death.

Another consequence of laxative overuse is chronic constipation. While laxatives are intended to relieve constipation, their prolonged or excessive use can have the opposite effect. Over time, the colon becomes dependent on laxatives to function, and the intestinal muscles weaken due to reduced activity. This can lead to a condition known as "lazy colon," where the colon loses its ability to evacuate stool normally, resulting in infrequent and difficult bowel movements.

In addition to these issues, laxative overuse can also cause intestinal blockage. Certain types of laxatives, such as those containing methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, polycarbophil, or psyllium, can lead to choking or intestinal blockage if not taken with sufficient fluids. This occurs when the laxative forms a solid mass in the intestines, obstructing the passage of stool and requiring medical attention.

The overuse of laxatives can have serious health consequences, and it is important to follow the recommended dosage and frequency to avoid these issues. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before taking laxatives, especially if there are underlying health conditions or concerns.

Bulk-forming laxatives are considered the gentlest type and are often recommended as a first-line treatment

Laxatives are a type of medicine that can treat constipation. They are often used if lifestyle changes, such as increasing fibre intake, drinking more fluids, and exercising, have not helped. Laxatives are available over the counter in pharmacies, grocery stores, and online, as well as on prescription from a doctor.

There are several types of laxatives, including bulk-forming laxatives, osmotics, stool softeners, lubricants, and stimulants. Bulk-forming laxatives are considered the gentlest type and are often recommended as a first-line treatment. They are also known as fibre supplements. These laxatives increase the "bulk" or weight of stools by adding soluble fibre, which draws water from the body into the stool, making it bigger, softer, and easier to pass. This stimulates the colon to contract and push out the stool.

Common bulk-forming laxatives include psyllium (Metamucil), polycarbophil (FiberCon), and methylcellulose (Citrucel). They usually take 12 hours to three days to work, although saline types can act faster, within 30 minutes to six hours. They are generally safe for healthy individuals, but side effects or drug interactions may occur, such as mild stomach pain, bloating, or gas. It is important to drink plenty of fluids when taking bulk-forming laxatives to prevent dehydration.

Bulk-forming laxatives are a good option for those experiencing chronic constipation due to diet, lifestyle, surgery, or medication. They are often preferred as they provide a more gradual improvement of constipation symptoms and have a lower risk of side effects like cramping or explosive diarrhoea, which can occur with stimulant laxatives. They can also be beneficial during pregnancy, when preparing for surgery, for treating constipation in bedridden individuals, and for restoring normal bowel function after a period of poor diet or inactivity.

Frequently asked questions