Crystell Harty
Chocolate laxatives are used to treat constipation and typically come in the form of chewable tablets, liquid medication, or dissolving strips. The recommended dosage for adults and children aged 12 and above is to chew two pieces once or twice daily. For children aged 6 to 11, the recommended dosage is to chew one piece once or twice daily. It is important to note that laxatives should not be used for more than 7 consecutive days unless directed by a doctor. Additionally, individuals experiencing abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting should refrain from using laxatives unless advised by a medical professional.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Sennosides, USP, 15 mg |
| Purpose | Stimulant laxative |
| Uses | Relieves occasional constipation (irregularity) |
| Dosage | Adults and children 12 years of age and older: Chew 2 pieces once or twice daily. Children 6 to under 12 years of age: Chew 1 piece once or twice daily. Children under 6 years of age: Ask a doctor. |
| Results | Generally produces bowel movement in 6 to 12 hours |
| Warnings | Do not use when abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting are present unless directed by a doctor. |
| --- | Ask a doctor before use if you have noticed a sudden change in bowel habits that persists over a period of 2 weeks. |
| --- | Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are taking any other drug. Laxatives may affect how other drugs work. Take this product 2 or more hours before or after other drugs. |
| When using this product | Do not use for a period longer than 1 week. |
| Stop use and ask a doctor | Rectal bleeding or failure to have a bowel movement occur after use of a laxative. These may be signs of a serious condition. |
| If pregnant or breastfeeding | Ask a health professional before use. |
| Keep out of reach of | Children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away. |
| Inactive ingredients | Cocoa powder, hydrogenated vegetable oils (palm, palm kernel), salt, soy lecithin, sugar, vanilla, whey powder (milk) |
What You'll Learn
How many chocolate laxatives can adults and children over 12 take?
Chocolate laxatives are used to treat constipation and are known as stimulant laxatives. They work by keeping water in the intestines, which causes movement. The medication is available in chewable tablets, dissolving strips, and liquid form.
The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. It is recommended that adults and children over 12 years of age chew two chocolate pieces once or twice daily. It is important to follow the directions on the product package or consult a doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
It may take 6 to 12 hours for this medication to cause a bowel movement. It is advised not to increase the dosage or take the medication more frequently than directed. Chocolate laxatives should not be taken for more than 7 days unless instructed by a doctor.
Some possible side effects of chocolate laxatives include stomach pain or cramping, nausea, diarrhea, and weakness. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist.
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How often should you take chocolate laxatives?
The frequency with which you should take chocolate laxatives depends on several factors, including your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. It is important to follow the directions on the product package or the advice of your doctor or pharmacist when taking chocolate laxatives. Here is an overview of how often you should take chocolate laxatives:
Adults and Children 12 Years of Age and Older:
It is recommended that adults and children aged 12 years and older chew two chocolate laxative pieces once or twice daily. It is important to allow at least six to twelve hours for the laxative to take effect. Do not take more than the recommended dose, and do not use the laxative for more than seven consecutive days unless directed by your doctor.
Children 6 to Under 12 Years of Age:
For children aged 6 to under 12 years, the recommended dose is to chew one chocolate laxative piece once or twice daily. As with adults, allow sufficient time for the laxative to take effect, and do not exceed the recommended duration of use without medical advice.
Children Under 6 Years of Age:
For children under 6 years of age, it is advised to consult a doctor before administering chocolate laxatives. The dosage and frequency may vary depending on the child's age, weight, and medical history.
It is important to note that chocolate laxatives should not be used for longer than one week without consulting a doctor. If you experience any adverse side effects, such as rectal bleeding or persistent constipation, discontinue use and seek medical advice. Additionally, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications, consult a healthcare professional before using chocolate laxatives.
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What are the side effects of chocolate laxatives?
Chocolate laxatives are used to treat constipation and to clean out the intestines before a bowel examination or surgery. They are known as stimulant laxatives and work by keeping water in the intestines, which causes movement.
There are several side effects associated with chocolate laxatives. The medication may cause stomach/abdominal pain or cramping, nausea, diarrhoea, or weakness. In addition, it may cause an allergic reaction, with symptoms such as a rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, and trouble breathing. It may also cause serious side effects such as nausea/vomiting/diarrhoea that doesn't stop, muscle cramps/weakness, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, decreased urination, and mental/mood changes (such as confusion).
Furthermore, chocolate laxatives may cause urine to turn reddish-brown, although this effect is harmless and will disappear once the medication is stopped. It is important to note that the medication should not be taken for more than 7 days unless directed by a doctor, as serious side effects may occur with overuse.
Additionally, the caffeine and lactose in chocolate can have a laxative effect. Caffeine can increase the rate of motility, which is the contraction of the muscles in the digestive tract that encourages bowel movements. Lactose, on the other hand, can cause diarrhoea, gas, and bloating in lactose-intolerant individuals.
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What are the ingredients of chocolate laxatives?
Chocolate laxatives are used to treat constipation and to clean out the intestines before a bowel examination or surgery. They work by keeping water in the intestines, which causes movement.
The active ingredient in chocolate laxatives is sennosides, a type of stimulant laxative. Each piece typically contains 15 mg of sennosides and 10 mg of potassium.
The inactive ingredients in chocolate laxatives include:
- Cocoa powder
- Hydrogenated vegetable oils (palm, palm kernel)
- Salt
- Soy lecithin (an emulsifier)
- Sugar
- Vanilla
- Whey powder (milk)
Some brands may also include:
- Confectioners' sugar
- Hydrogenated palm kernel oil
- Lecithin
- Non-fat dry milk
- Cottonseed
- Sodium chloride
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What are the alternatives to chocolate laxatives?
While chocolate laxatives can be an effective treatment for constipation, they are not suitable for everyone. If you are looking for alternative ways to relieve constipation, there are several options to consider.
Firstly, it is important to ensure you are drinking enough water and consuming an adequate amount of fibre. The recommended fibre intake varies depending on age and sex, but it is generally advised to consume around 22-34 grams per day. Fibre-rich foods include bran, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
In addition to dietary changes, increasing your level of physical activity can help alleviate constipation. Bowel training techniques, such as attempting to pass stools at the same time every day or after meals, may also be beneficial.
If dietary and lifestyle changes do not provide relief, there are over-the-counter (OTC) laxatives available that do not contain chocolate. These include stimulant laxatives, which are typically recommended for severe cases or when other treatments have been unsuccessful. Lubiprostone, linaclotide, and prucalopride are prescription medications that can be prescribed by a doctor if OTC treatments are not effective.
It is important to consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medications or supplements, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or experiencing ongoing abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or other concerning symptoms. They can advise you on the most suitable treatment plan for your specific needs.
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Frequently asked questions
Adults and children 12 years or older can take two chocolate laxatives once or twice a day.
Children between 6 and 12 years of age can take one chocolate laxative once or twice a day.
Chocolate laxatives generally produce a bowel movement in 6 to 12 hours.
Chocolate laxatives may cause stomach/abdominal pain or cramping, nausea, diarrhoea, or weakness. They may also cause allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
