When To Expect Results From A Laxative Suppository

Laxative suppositories are a fast-acting treatment for constipation, typically producing a bowel movement within 15 to 60 minutes. However, it is recommended that you wait for at least an hour after inserting the suppository before having a bowel movement to allow the medicine to circulate into the bloodstream and start functioning effectively. This type of laxative works by softening stools or stimulating the bowels to get moving, and they are usually well-tolerated with minimal side effects. They are a good option for those who struggle to take oral medication and can be safely used by adults and children over 12 years old.

How long does it take for laxatives to work?

The time it takes for a laxative to work depends on the type of laxative and how you take it. Laxatives are medicines that help you have a bowel movement if you're constipated. They work by softening hard stools or stimulating your bowels to get moving.

Enemas and suppositories are the fastest-acting laxatives, helping you poop within 15 minutes to one hour. These laxatives are injected directly into the anus, and while they provide fast relief, they also have a greater risk of side effects such as diarrhoea and stomach cramps.

Gentler types of laxatives, like bulk-forming laxatives, are less likely to cause side effects, but they may take longer to work—usually 12 hours to three days. These laxatives "bulk" up your stool by adding soluble fibre, which draws water from your body into your stool, making it bigger and softer. This increase in size stimulates your colon to contract and push the stool out.

Other types of laxatives include:

• Osmotics: These pull water from other body parts and send it to your colon, softening the stool.
• Stool softeners: These increase the water and fat your poop absorbs, making it softer.
• Lubricants: These coat your colon, making it slick and preventing your colon from absorbing water from your stool.
• Stimulants: These activate the nerves that control the muscles in your colon, forcing it into motion.

It's important to follow the instructions when taking laxatives to prevent side effects and reduce the risk of overdose. If you're experiencing constipation, it's recommended to first try lifestyle changes such as eating high-fibre foods, taking probiotics, drinking more fluids, and exercising. If these changes don't help, then it may be time to consider trying a laxative.

What are the types of laxatives?

Laxatives are a type of medicine used to treat constipation. They are available over the counter in pharmacies and supermarkets, and sometimes on prescription from a doctor. There are four main types of laxatives: bulk-forming laxatives, osmotic laxatives, stool softener laxatives, and stimulant laxatives.

Bulk-forming Laxatives

Bulk-forming laxatives work by increasing the bulk or weight of faeces, which stimulates the bowel. They typically take two to three days to work. Examples include Fybogel (ispaghula husk), psyllium (Metamucil), polycarbophil (FiberCon), and methylcellulose (Citrucel).

Osmotic Laxatives

Osmotic laxatives draw water from the body into the bowel, softening faeces and making it easier to pass. They also take two to three days to work. Examples include lactulose (Duphalac, Lactugal), macrogol (Movicol, Laxido, CosmoCol, Molaxole, Molative), polyethylene glycol (Gavilax, MiraLAX), and magnesium hydroxide solution (Dulcolax, Ex-Lax, Phillips' Milk of Magnesia).

Stool Softener Laxatives

Also known as emollient laxatives, this type of laxative increases the water and fat that faeces absorb, making it softer. An example is docusate (Colace).

Lubricant Laxatives

Lubricant laxatives coat the colon, making it slippery and preventing the absorption of water from faeces, keeping it soft. An example is mineral oil.

Stimulant Laxatives

Stimulant laxatives activate the nerves that control the muscles in the colon, forcing it to move faeces along. Examples include bisacodyl (Dulcolax) and senna (Senokot, Fletcher's Laxative).

How should I take a laxative?

Laxatives are a type of medicine that can help treat constipation. They are available over the counter from pharmacies and supermarkets, or on prescription from a doctor. There are four main types of laxatives: bulk-forming, osmotic, stimulant, and stool softener.

How you take a laxative depends on its form. Laxatives commonly come as:

• Tablets or capsules that you swallow
• Sachets of powder that you mix with water and then drink
• Suppositories—a capsule you place inside your back passage (rectum), where it will dissolve
• Liquids or gels that you place directly into your back passage

Some laxatives are designed to be taken at certain times of the day, such as first thing in the morning or last thing at night. Always read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medication so you know how to take it properly. Ask your pharmacist for advice if you're still unsure.

If you're taking bulk-forming or osmotic laxatives, it's important to drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Never take more than the recommended dose of laxatives, as this can be harmful and cause side effects.

Ideally, you should only take laxatives occasionally and for short periods of time. Stop taking a laxative when your constipation improves. If your constipation hasn't improved after taking laxatives for a week, speak to a doctor.

What are the side effects of laxatives?

Laxatives are among the most commonly used drugs or additives to treat constipation. They are usually safe and effective when used occasionally and in the absence of contraindications. However, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects and risks associated with their use.

Some common side effects of laxatives include:

• Bloating and gas
• Dehydration, which can lead to lightheadedness, headaches, and darker urine
• Cramps in the abdomen
• Diarrhea
• Electrolyte imbalance

Most of these side effects will disappear once a person stops taking the medication. It is recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase it to minimise side effects.

Serious side effects from laxatives are rare but can occur with excessive or prolonged use. These may include:

• Intestinal obstruction, where stools become large and dry
• Electrolyte shifts, particularly with an imbalance of potassium
• Dehydration, which can lead to tremors, weakness, blurry vision, and kidney damage
• Laxative dependency, where the colon stops reacting to usual doses and larger doses are required
• Internal organ damage, including stretching of the colon and thinning of the muscle wall
• Increased risk of colorectal cancer, although more research is needed to establish a direct link

Laxatives can also interact with other medications, including heart medications, antibiotics, and bone medications. It is important to check with a doctor or pharmacist before taking laxatives if you are also taking any other drugs.

Additionally, misuse of laxatives is relatively common, especially among individuals with eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia. It is important to note that frequent and repeated use of laxatives for weight loss can lead to health complications and contribute to an eating disorder diagnosis.

Who should not take laxatives?

Laxatives are a common solution to constipation, but they are not suitable for everyone. Here are some detailed guidelines on who should refrain from using laxatives:

Pregnant or Breastfeeding Individuals

Pregnancy and breastfeeding are special cases that require extra caution. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before taking any laxatives. The potential risks and benefits should be carefully weighed, and alternative treatments may be recommended.

Individuals with Allergies or Specific Medical Conditions

Those with allergies or specific medical conditions should exercise caution when considering laxatives. For instance, individuals with intestinal blockage, rectal bleeding, or other bowel problems like ulcerative colitis or hemorrhoids, need to consult a doctor before using laxatives. Additionally, if you are experiencing current stomach or abdominal symptoms, such as persistent nausea, vomiting, pain, or cramping, it is advisable to seek medical advice first.

People Experiencing a Sudden Change in Bowel Habits

If you notice a sudden change in your bowel habits that lasts for more than two weeks, it is recommended to consult a doctor before resorting to laxatives. This could be a symptom of a more serious medical issue that requires professional evaluation and treatment.

Individuals with Kidney or Heart Problems

The use of saline osmotic laxatives, which draw water into the bowels, can be dangerous for individuals with kidney or heart problems. These laxatives can alter the body's chemistry, and when combined with an underperforming kidney or heart failure, they may pose a risk. Therefore, it is crucial to seek medical advice before using such laxatives if you have any underlying kidney or heart conditions.

Children

The use of laxatives in children requires careful consideration and supervision. Laxatives are not recommended for children under six years of age without consulting a doctor first. For children between the ages of six and twelve, a reduced dosage of half a suppository per day is typically advised. It is important to follow the instructions provided by a healthcare professional to ensure the safe and effective use of laxatives in children.

Individuals Taking Other Medications

Drug interactions can significantly influence the effectiveness and safety of laxatives. Therefore, it is essential to inform your doctor or pharmacist about any medications you are currently taking, including prescription, non-prescription, and herbal products. This information will enable them to assess potential drug interactions and provide appropriate guidance.

In summary, while laxatives can be a convenient solution for occasional constipation, they are not suitable for everyone. It is important to carefully consider the guidelines provided and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or fall into any of the categories mentioned above.

Frequently asked questions