Daily Laxative Use: Safe Or Not?

Osmotic laxatives are medications used to treat or prevent constipation by drawing water into the colon to soften stools and make them easier to pass. They are available over the counter and by prescription. While osmotic laxatives can be effective, they are not recommended for daily use. This is because overuse can lead to dehydration, loss of electrolytes, and other complications. Instead, it is advised to first try increasing fibre in the diet, drinking plenty of fluids, and exercising. If these lifestyle changes do not help, a doctor may recommend a laxative.

Osmotic laxatives' side effects

Osmotic laxatives are used to treat constipation and hepatic encephalopathy, as well as to prepare the bowel for surgery. They work by drawing water from the surrounding tissues and sending it to the colon, softening stools and making them easier to pass. Osmotic laxatives are available over the counter and by prescription.

As with all drugs, osmotic laxatives can cause side effects. Most are relatively mild and will resolve on their own within a couple of days. However, it is important to drink plenty of water while taking osmotic laxatives to improve their efficiency and decrease the possibility of gas and cramps.

Common side effects of osmotic laxatives include:

• Dehydration, which can cause symptoms such as feeling weak, lightheaded, and having dark-coloured urine.
• Nausea
• Bloating
• Cramping
• Flatulence
• Diarrhea

The overuse of osmotic laxatives can lead to dehydration and other complications, including:

• Loss of electrolytes like sodium, calcium, and potassium, which are essential for regulating heartbeats, muscle contractions, and other key functions.
• Chronic constipation
• Intestinal obstruction

If you experience any side effects while taking osmotic laxatives, it is important to speak to a healthcare provider.

Osmotic laxatives' alternatives

Osmotic laxatives are medications used to treat or prevent constipation and hepatic encephalopathy. They are available over the counter and by prescription. Osmotic laxatives work by drawing water from the wall of the colon to the inside of the colon, making stools softer and easier to pass. However, they can have side effects such as nausea, bloating, cramping, flatulence, and diarrhoea. Overuse of osmotic laxatives can lead to dehydration and other complications. Therefore, it is important to explore alternative treatments for constipation.

• Bulk-forming laxatives ( fibre supplements): These laxatives increase the bulk or size of the stool by drawing water into it, making it softer and easier to pass. They are considered the gentlest type of laxative and are usually recommended as the first option to treat constipation. Bulk-forming laxatives include psyllium (Metamucil), polycarbophil (FiberCon), and methylcellulose (Citrucel). They are generally safe to use daily and are available over the counter.
• Stool softeners ( emollient laxatives): Stool softeners increase the water and fat content in the stool, making it softer. An example of a stool softener is docusate (Colace). They are available in capsule, tablet, liquid, and syrup forms.
• Lubricant laxatives: These laxatives coat the colon with an oily substance, such as mineral oil, making it easier for the stool to pass through the intestine. Lubricant laxatives are also helpful when stools are stuck low in the bowels or in cases of internal tears or fissures.
• Stimulant laxatives: This type of laxative stimulates the nerves and muscles in the colon, forcing it to move the stool along. Stimulant laxatives include bisacodyl (Dulcolax) and senna (Fletcher's Laxative). However, overuse of stimulant laxatives can lead to dependence on them for bowel movements.
• Dietary changes: Eating high-fibre foods, drinking adequate fluids, and staying physically active can help relieve constipation. Probiotics can also be beneficial.
• Prescription laxatives: If over-the-counter laxatives are not effective, your healthcare provider may prescribe a laxative specifically for chronic constipation. Examples include lactulose (Duphalac), linaclotide (Linzess), and lubiprostone (Amitiza).

Osmotic laxatives' overdose risks

Osmotic laxatives are medications used to treat or prevent constipation. They are available over the counter and by prescription. Osmotic laxatives work by drawing water from the wall of the colon to the inside of the colon, making stools softer and easier to pass. However, their overuse can lead to several health risks and complications.

The overuse of osmotic laxatives can cause dehydration and the loss of essential electrolytes like sodium, calcium, and potassium. These minerals are crucial for regulating heartbeats, muscle contractions, and other vital bodily functions. Dehydration can also lead to other health issues, and in severe cases, it may require medical attention.

Another risk of osmotic laxative overdose is the development of chronic constipation. While laxatives are meant to relieve constipation, overuse can paradoxically lead to this condition becoming a long-term issue. This may be due to the body's natural functions being disrupted by the frequent use of laxatives.

In addition, the overuse of osmotic laxatives can cause intestinal blockage. This occurs when the intestines become obstructed, preventing the normal passage of stool. This condition requires immediate medical attention as it can lead to severe complications.

Furthermore, the overuse of osmotic laxatives can delay the diagnosis of underlying conditions that cause constipation. By masking the symptoms of constipation, laxatives can hinder the identification of the root cause. This delay in diagnosis can result in a missed opportunity to address the actual cause of constipation, which may be more effectively treated through dietary, exercise, or lifestyle changes.

It is important to follow the instructions on the medication and consult a healthcare provider to ensure the safe and correct use of osmotic laxatives. Overuse of any medication, including osmotic laxatives, can lead to adverse effects and health complications.

Osmotic laxatives' interactions with other medications

Osmotic laxatives are available over the counter and by prescription. They are used to treat or prevent constipation by drawing water into the colon, making stools softer and easier to pass. However, they can have side effects, such as nausea, bloating, cramping, flatulence, and diarrhoea. Overuse can lead to dehydration and the loss of essential electrolytes. Therefore, it is important to follow the dosing instructions carefully and only use a laxative when needed.

Some sources advise against taking osmotic laxatives with mineral oil, as this can interfere with vitamin absorption. It is also important to note that laxatives can sometimes counteract the effects of certain medications. Therefore, it is recommended that you consult your healthcare provider before taking an osmotic laxative if you are on any prescription medications.

Moreover, it is advised that you do not take stimulant laxatives too frequently, as this can lead to a dependency on them for bowel movements. This may be because the bowel has stopped functioning normally.

Osmotic laxatives' suitability for children

Osmotic laxatives are safe for children and are often used to treat constipation in children. Osmotic laxatives are medications that treat constipation by drawing extra water into the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. Osmotic laxatives are available over the counter and by prescription. Osmotic laxatives are often used to treat constipation in children, and they are generally safe for children when used correctly.

Osmotic laxatives are often recommended for children with functional constipation, which is a common problem in childhood. Functional constipation refers to constipation that is not caused by an underlying medical condition. Osmotic laxatives can help to soften stools and increase the frequency of bowel movements in children with functional constipation.

Some commonly used osmotic laxatives for children include:

• Polyethylene glycol (PEG): This is an organic compound derived from petroleum that can be safely ingested to manage constipation. It is available over the counter under brand names like Miralax and GlycoLax.
• Lactulose: This is a type of sugar that is not absorbed by the intestine. It sits and ferments in the intestines, producing fatty acids that draw water into the colon. It is available by prescription under brand names like Cephulac, Duphalac, and Kristalose.
• Sorbitol: This is another non-absorbable sugar with effects similar to lactulose. It is available over the counter and by prescription under brand names like Arlex and GeriCare.
• Magnesium citrate: This is a salt form of magnesium combined with citric acid. It helps draw water into the colon and is available over the counter under brand names like Citrate of Magnesia, Citroma, and LiquiPrep.
• Magnesium hydroxide: This is a milder form of magnesium sold under the brand name Milk of Magnesia, which is also available over the counter.

When using osmotic laxatives for children, it is important to follow the dosing instructions carefully and only use them when needed. It is also important to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, including consuming plenty of fibre-rich foods, staying hydrated, and being physically active.

Frequently asked questions