Anna Werrett
Constipation is a common issue that many people face, and laxatives are often seen as a quick fix. While laxatives can be effective in treating constipation, they should be used sparingly and only when necessary. Before resorting to laxatives, it is recommended to try lifestyle changes such as increasing fibre intake, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly. However, if these measures fail to provide relief, laxatives may be considered as a short-term solution. It is important to note that laxatives are not suitable for everyone and should be used with caution, as they can cause side effects such as dehydration, bloating, and stomach cramps. Different types of laxatives are available, including bulk-forming, osmotic, stool softeners, lubricants, and stimulants, each with its own mechanism of action and potential side effects. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before taking laxatives to ensure their safe and appropriate use.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What are laxatives? | A type of medicine that can treat constipation |
| When should you take laxatives? | If lifestyle changes, such as increasing the amount of fibre in your diet, drinking plenty of fluid and taking regular exercise, have not helped |
| Who should not take laxatives? | Children (unless advised by a doctor), pregnant women, people on prescription medication, people with certain health conditions such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis |
| Types of laxatives | Bulk-forming, osmotic, stool softener, lubricating, stimulating, prescription |
| How do laxatives work? | By softening hard stools or stimulating your bowels to get moving |
| How to take laxatives | Laxatives come in different forms, including pills, capsules, powders, liquids, gels, suppositories, and enemas |
| How long should you take laxatives for? | Laxatives should be taken occasionally and for up to a week at a time. Stop taking them when your constipation improves |
| Side effects | Dehydration, bloating, gas, stomach cramps, diarrhoea, intestinal obstruction, electrolyte imbalance, chronic constipation |
What You'll Learn
Bulk-forming laxatives
When taking bulk-forming laxatives, it is important to drink at least 8 ounces of water or fruit juice to prevent bowel obstruction and stay well-hydrated throughout the day. It is also crucial to follow the dosage instructions on the label. People with kidney disease or diabetes should consult their doctor before using bulk-forming laxatives as they are at risk of electrolyte imbalances. Additionally, laxatives may impact how the body absorbs medications, so it is advised to take any medication at least one hour before or two hours after consuming fibre.
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Osmotic laxatives
In addition to treating constipation, osmotic laxatives are sometimes used for bowel preparation before a colonoscopy. They can also be used to treat chronic constipation, while other types of laxatives are generally used for occasional constipation.
Common osmotic laxatives include:
- Polyethylene glycol (PEG): An organic compound derived from petroleum that can be safely ingested to manage constipation. Available over the counter, PEG-containing laxatives include Miralax and GlycoLax.
- Lactulose: 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 lumen. Available by prescription, lactulose-containing laxatives include Cephulac, Duphalac, and Kristalose.
- Sorbitol: Another non-absorbable sugar with an action similar to lactulose. Over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription versions are available, including Arlex and GeriCare.
- Magnesium citrate: Magnesium in salt form combined with citric acid, which helps draw water into the lumen. OTC versions include Citrate of Magnesia, Citroma, and LiquiPrep.
- Magnesium hydroxide: A milder form of magnesium sold under the brand name Milk of Magnesia. Available over the counter, Milk of Magnesia is also used as an antacid.
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Stool softeners
The active ingredients in stool softeners are docusate sodium and docusate calcium. A common brand of docusate is Colace. Stool softeners can be taken orally or rectally. Orally, they come in the form of tablets, capsules, syrup, or liquid. Rectally, they are injected directly into the rectum in the form of an enema or suppository.
It is important to note that stool softeners should only be taken when needed and as directed by a healthcare provider. They are not meant to be taken every day or for extended periods without medical supervision. Side effects of stool softeners may include stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhoea. If you experience any of these side effects, it is recommended to consult your doctor.
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Lubricant laxatives
When taking a mineral oil laxative, it is recommended to follow the directions on the product package or the advice of a doctor. The dosage is typically based on age, medical condition, and response to treatment. It is important to carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device or spoon, as taking too much can lead to leakage and soiling of clothes. Lubricant laxatives should be taken by mouth and are available in liquid form. Shaking the bottle before each dose may be required for some brands.
Although lubricant laxatives can provide temporary relief from constipation, it is important to address the underlying causes of constipation through lifestyle changes. This includes incorporating exercise, dietary changes with an increase in fibre-rich foods, and staying hydrated by drinking enough water. In addition, managing stress levels can positively impact gut health and help manage constipation. It is always recommended to consult a doctor if constipation persists despite these interventions or if there are any concerns about the use of laxatives.
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Stimulant laxatives
The active ingredient in stimulant laxatives is usually either senna (also known as sennosides) or bisacodyl. Some popular brands include bisacodyl (Correctol, Dulcolax, Feen-a-Mint), and sennosides (Ex-Lax, Senokot). Prunes (dried plums) are also an effective colonic stimulant and taste good, too.
It is important to note that you should not use stimulant laxatives for more than a week unless specifically advised by your doctor to do so. Understand that stimulant laxatives can be habit-forming and can be harmful to your bowels if used for an extended period of time. They may also cause cramping and diarrhoea.
Do not give stimulant laxatives to a child under the age of six unless instructed to do so by the child's pediatrician.
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Frequently asked questions
Laxatives are a type of medicine that can treat constipation. They work by softening hard stools or stimulating your bowels to get moving so you can pass them.
There are four main types of laxatives: bulk-forming, osmotic, stool softeners, and lubricants. Bulk-forming laxatives increase the "bulk" or weight of the stool, which stimulates the bowel. Osmotic laxatives draw water from the body into the bowel to soften the stool. Stool softeners let water into the stool to soften it. Lubricant laxatives coat the colon, making it slick and preventing water absorption.
Yes, it's often possible to improve constipation without using laxatives. Increasing your daily fibre intake, drinking plenty of water, taking probiotics, and exercising regularly can all help relieve constipation.
Common side effects of taking laxatives include bloating, gas, stomach cramps, and dehydration. Overuse of laxatives can lead to more serious complications such as electrolyte imbalance, chronic constipation, and intestinal blockage.
