Laxatives are a common treatment for constipation, stimulating or facilitating bowel movements. While they are easily accessible over the counter, it is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist to determine the best type of laxative for your body's needs. Laxatives can take anywhere from 6 hours to 3 days to show results, depending on the type and individual digestive system transit times. It is crucial to follow the instructions provided by healthcare professionals and product manufacturers when taking laxatives. Bulk-forming laxatives, for example, are safe for daily use and can be effective in treating chronic constipation. However, laxative abuse can lead to serious bowel motility issues, and overuse can result in the intestines losing muscle and nerve response, leading to dependency on the laxatives for bowel movements. Therefore, it is important to use laxatives in moderation and under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Time taken for laxatives to work | 6-10 hours for stimulants, 6-8 hours for lubricants, 30 minutes to 3 hours for saline laxatives, 6-48 hours for lactulose laxatives, 6 hours for polymer laxatives |
Laxative types | Bulk-forming, stool softeners, lubricants, stimulants, osmotics, saline, lactulose, polymer, glycerine, enema |
Laxative brands | Metamucil, FiberCon, Phillips' Milk of Magnesia, Colace, Ex-lax, Dulcolax, Senokot, Polyethylene glycol, MiraLAX, Lax-A-Day, PegaLAX, RestoraLax, Mineral oil |
Side effects | Electrolyte imbalance, dehydration, vitamin deficiencies, medication interference, intestinal paralysis, cathartic colon, intestinal muscle loss, nerve response loss, dependency |
Recommended intake | 6-8 cups of liquid per day, plus an additional glass with each laxative dose |
What You'll Learn
Laxatives can be used to treat constipation
Laxatives are a type of medicine that can be used to treat constipation. They are often used if lifestyle changes, such as increasing fibre intake, drinking more fluids, and exercising, have not helped alleviate constipation. Constipation is characterised by difficult and infrequent bowel movements, with fewer than three per week.
There are several types of laxatives available over the counter and on prescription. They work by increasing the bulk, weight, and water content of the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. They can also stimulate the muscles that line the gut, helping to move the stool along.
Bulk-forming laxatives, such as Fybogel (ispaghula husk), are the most commonly recommended by doctors. They increase the bulk or weight of the stool, which in turn stimulates the bowel. These laxatives can take up to three days to work. It is important to drink plenty of fluids when taking bulk-forming laxatives to avoid dehydration.
Osmotic laxatives, such as lactulose and macrogol, draw water from the body into the bowel, softening the stool. They also stimulate the muscles of the gut, aiding in moving the stool to the back passage. These laxatives typically take six to twelve hours to work.
Poo-softener laxatives, such as Colace, allow water into the stool to soften it and make it easier to pass.
Stimulant laxatives, such as bisacodyl and sennosides, stimulate the lining of the intestine, accelerating the stool's journey through the colon. They also increase the hydration of the stool. However, these laxatives should not be used daily or regularly as they may weaken the body's natural ability to defecate and lead to laxative dependency.
Laxatives should be used sparingly and only when necessary. They are not a substitute for a healthy diet and regular exercise, which are the best ways to prevent constipation.
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Bulk-forming laxatives are safe for long-term use
Laxatives are medicines that stimulate or facilitate bowel movements. They are available over the counter and are usually taken orally. There are five primary types of over-the-counter laxatives: osmotics, bulk formers, oral stool softeners, stimulants, and rectal suppositories.
Bulk-forming laxatives are generally safe for long-term use. They are often recommended as a first line of defense before other types of laxatives are used. They are also considered safe for daily use. Bulk-forming laxatives absorb water in the intestines to create a softer, more bulky stool that is easier to pass. Common bulk-forming laxatives include psyllium (Metamucil), polycarbophil (FiberCon), and methylcellulose (Citrucel). They are most similar to stool softeners in that they help the bowels retain water.
The benefits of bulk-forming laxatives include their effectiveness in treating chronic constipation due to diet, lifestyle, recent surgery, or medication. They are also useful during pregnancy or after giving birth, and for bedridden individuals. Additionally, they can help prevent strain after surgery, restore normal bowel function after a period of poor eating or inactivity, and reduce cholesterol. Bulk-forming laxatives may also be beneficial in treating diarrhea and medical conditions made worse by straining.
While bulk-forming laxatives are generally safe, some mild side effects may occur, such as stomach pain, bloating, or gas. More serious side effects include difficulty swallowing, a feeling of a lump in the throat, and difficulty breathing. People with kidney disease or diabetes should consult a doctor before using bulk-forming laxatives as they are at a higher risk of electrolyte imbalances. It is important to take these laxatives with at least 8 ounces of water or fruit juice to prevent bowel obstruction and stay well-hydrated throughout the day.
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Stool softeners are often recommended after childbirth
Laxatives are medicines that stimulate or facilitate bowel movements. They are available over the counter and by prescription. The number of bowel movements one can expect after taking a laxative varies depending on the type of laxative and the individual's body. On average, a person who is constipated will have fewer than three bowel movements a week. Therefore, after taking a laxative, one can expect to have at least three bowel movements. However, it is important to note that overuse of laxatives can lead to dependency, and they should be used with caution.
Now, let's discuss the use of stool softeners after childbirth.
- Safety: Stool softeners are considered safe to take during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. They are also safe to use after giving birth and are commonly recommended by healthcare professionals.
- Timing: It is recommended to start taking a stool softener as soon as you feel the urge to have a bowel movement after childbirth. Most people have their first bowel movement within 2-4 days after delivery, so it is essential to be prepared.
- Duration: Stool softeners are not meant for long-term use. It is recommended to use them for 1-3 days initially and then discontinue use after 2 weeks. If you are still experiencing constipation, consult your healthcare provider.
- Types: There are various types of stool softeners available, such as Colace, Phillips' Stool Softener, Dulcolax Pink Stool Softener, and DulcoEase Stool Softener. These products typically contain docusate sodium as the active ingredient and work within 12-72 hours.
- Administration: Stool softeners are usually taken at bedtime with a full glass of water. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and not exceed it.
- Diet and Lifestyle: In addition to taking stool softeners, it is essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other hydrating fluids. Eating a well-balanced diet with fiber-rich foods, such as whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables, can also help prevent constipation.
- Warning: While stool softeners are generally safe, it is important to discuss their use with a healthcare professional, especially if you are taking other medications. They may interact with certain drugs, and it is crucial to ensure they are safe for your specific situation.
By following these instructions, new mothers can safely and effectively use stool softeners to manage postpartum constipation and make their bowel movements more comfortable.
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Lubricant laxatives should not be used for longer than a week
The number of bowel movements after taking a laxative varies from person to person and depends on the type of laxative used. Generally, if you experience fewer than three bowel movements a week, you are considered constipated. Laxatives are used to stimulate or facilitate bowel movements and relieve constipation.
Types of Laxatives:
- Bulk-forming laxatives: These increase the bulk of the stool by adding soluble fiber, making it bigger and softer, and stimulating the colon to contract and push out the stool. Examples include psyllium (Metamucil®) and methylcellulose (Citrucel®).
- Osmotic laxatives: These pull water from other parts of the body into the colon, softening the stool. Examples include polyethylene glycol (MiraLAX®) and magnesium hydroxide solution (Milk of Magnesia).
- Stool softener laxatives: Also known as emollient laxatives, they increase the water and fat absorption of the stool, making it softer. An example is docusate (Colace®).
- Lubricant laxatives: These coat the colon, making it slick and preventing water absorption from the stool, thus aiding in easier passage. Mineral oil is a common ingredient in lubricant laxatives.
- Stimulant laxatives: These activate the nerves controlling the colon muscles, forcing it into motion and moving the stool along. Examples include bisacodyl (Dulcolax®) and senna (Fletcher's® Laxative).
The time taken for laxatives to work depends on their type and how they are administered. Suppositories and enemas, for instance, work within 15 minutes to an hour, while bulk-forming laxatives may take 12 hours to three days.
Laxatives are generally recommended for short-term relief from constipation and should not be used for longer than a week unless advised by a doctor. Overuse of laxatives can lead to intestinal muscle and nerve response loss, resulting in dependency on them for bowel movements. Long-term use can also cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and interference with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and certain prescription medications.
Therefore, it is essential to use lubricant laxatives sparingly and only as directed by a healthcare professional. If your bowel movements do not improve after a week of using laxatives, consult your doctor before continuing their use.
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Osmotic laxatives can cause electrolyte imbalances
Osmotic laxatives are a type of over-the-counter medication that can be taken orally to treat constipation. They work by drawing water into the colon, making it easier for stools to pass. Osmotic laxatives include brands such as Phillips' Milk of Magnesia.
While osmotic laxatives can be effective in treating constipation, they carry the risk of causing an electrolyte imbalance in the body. Electrolytes are minerals that carry an electric charge and are essential for various bodily functions, including muscle contractions and the transmission of nerve signals. An electrolyte imbalance can lead to muscle weakness and other health issues.
The risk of electrolyte imbalance is particularly high when osmotic laxatives are used in combination with stimulant laxatives. Stimulant laxatives work by triggering intestinal muscle contractions, which helps move stools along the colon. However, when used together with osmotic laxatives, this combination can lead to excessive fluid loss and dehydration, further disrupting the balance of electrolytes in the body.
To minimize the risk of electrolyte imbalances, it is important to use laxatives with caution and only as directed. It is recommended to consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking laxatives to ensure they are suitable for your individual needs and health condition. They can advise on the appropriate type and dosage of laxative to help prevent potential side effects, including electrolyte imbalances.
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Frequently asked questions
The normal frequency of bowel movements varies from person to person. Some people have bowel movements three times a day, while others have them just a few times a week. Laxatives can increase the frequency of bowel movements, but the number of bowel movements after taking a laxative may vary depending on the type of laxative and individual factors.
The time it takes for a laxative to work can vary depending on the type of laxative and individual factors. Bulk-forming laxatives, for example, can take anywhere from 12 hours to three days to show results. Lubricant laxatives usually work within 6-8 hours, while stimulants may take 6-10 hours to have an effect. Saline laxatives are faster-acting and can work within 30 minutes to three hours.
There are several types of laxatives available, including bulk-forming laxatives, stool softeners, lubricant laxatives, stimulants, and osmotic laxatives. Each type works differently to promote bowel movements.
Yes, laxatives can have side effects and risks. Common side effects may include bloating, intestinal gas, cramping, and increased constipation if not taken with enough water. More seriously, overuse of laxatives can lead to intestinal paralysis, dependency on laxatives, irritable bowel syndrome, and other problems. Laxatives can also interact with certain medications and may not be suitable for pregnant women or individuals with certain health conditions.
If you are experiencing chronic constipation (infrequent bowel movements lasting several weeks or longer), or if you are constantly needing to take laxatives, it is recommended to see a doctor for an evaluation. Additional testing can help rule out any serious underlying conditions and determine the most appropriate treatment.