Yury Trafimovich
Laxatives are a type of medicine used to treat constipation by stimulating bowel movements. They work in different ways, but the most common types are bulk-forming laxatives, osmotic laxatives, stool softeners, and stimulant laxatives. Bulk-forming laxatives increase the bulk of stools by absorbing water, making them softer and easier to pass. Osmotic laxatives draw water into the colon, stimulating bowel contractions. Stool softeners make stools softer, while stimulant laxatives trigger intestinal contractions to push stools out. Laxatives can be taken orally or rectally and are available over the counter or by prescription. They usually take 15 minutes to 72 hours to work, depending on the type and individual factors. While generally safe, they can cause side effects like dehydration, bloating, and diarrhoea, especially with overuse or interaction with other medications.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Types | Bulk-forming, osmotic, stimulant, emollient, lubricant, hyperosmotic, stool softeners, suppositories, enemas |
| How they work | Stimulate bowel movement, draw water into stool, stimulate bowel nerves, soften stool, lubricate stool, stimulate bowel contractions |
| Time to take effect | 15-30 minutes to 48-72 hours |
| Side effects | Dehydration, diarrhoea, intestinal obstruction, nausea, bloating, gas, electrolyte imbalance, muscle weakness, fatigue, abdominal pain |
| Precautions | Drink plenty of water, don't take more than the recommended dose, don't use for more than a week without consulting a doctor |
What You'll Learn
Bulk-forming laxatives
Common bulk-forming laxatives include Fybogel (ispaghula husk), psyllium (Metamucil), polycarbophil (FiberCon), and methylcellulose (Citrucel). These laxatives are considered the gentlest and are usually the first line of defence before other types of laxatives. They are also safer than stimulant laxatives, which carry the risk of causing cramping or explosive diarrhoea.
It is recommended to start with a bulk-forming laxative and then try other types if needed. For example, if the stool remains hard, an osmotic laxative can be added or used instead. If the stool is soft but still difficult to pass, a stimulant laxative can be taken in addition to the bulk-forming laxative.
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Osmotic laxatives
Other osmotic laxatives include:
- Polyethylene glycol (Gavilax, MiraLAX)
- Magnesium hydroxide solution (Dulcolax, Ex-Lax, Phillips' Milk of Magnesia)
- Glycerin (Colace Glycerin, Fleet Pedia-Lax)
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Stimulant laxatives
Some of the side effects of using stimulant laxatives include abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, and discoloured urine (brownish-red colour when using senna). It is important to discuss any side effects with a doctor and seek immediate medical advice if any concerning symptoms occur.
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Faecal softeners
Before taking any laxative, it is important to ensure that constipation is not due to an underlying, undiagnosed condition. Lifestyle changes, such as increasing fibre intake, drinking more fluids, and exercising regularly, should be tried first to relieve constipation. If these measures do not help, a faecal softener or other types of laxatives may be considered under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
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Lubricant laxatives
Mineral oil is an example of a lubricant laxative. It is taken by mouth, usually directed by a doctor, and can be purchased from pharmacies. It is important to carefully measure the dose of mineral oil using a special device or spoon, and it should not be taken at the same time as stool softeners. It typically takes 6 to 8 hours for mineral oil to cause a bowel movement.
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Frequently asked questions
Laxatives are a type of medicine used to treat constipation. They stimulate or facilitate bowel movements and are available in different forms such as liquids, tablets, capsules, suppositories, and enemas.
There are several types of laxatives, and they work in different ways. Bulk-forming laxatives, for example, increase the bulk of stools by absorbing water, making them softer and easier to pass. Osmotic laxatives draw water into the colon, stimulating bowel movements. Stool softeners, as the name suggests, soften the stools.
Common side effects of laxatives include dehydration, increased constipation (if not taken with enough water), diarrhoea, bloating, nausea, and abdominal cramps.
Laxatives are generally safe for most people, but they are not recommended for children unless advised by a doctor. People with certain health conditions, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, should also use them with caution. It is important to read the labels and consult a doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns.
