Best Doctor-Recommended Laxatives For Constipation Relief

Constipation is a common condition that makes it difficult to have a bowel movement. Laxatives are medicines that can help relieve constipation by softening hard stools or stimulating the bowels to move. While many laxatives are available over the counter, it is important to understand how they work and how to use them safely. Doctors usually recommend fibre laxatives for normal and slow-transit constipation. Fibre laxatives, also known as bulk-forming laxatives, add soluble fibre to the stool, making it larger and softer. This triggers the bowel to contract and move the stool out. Examples of fibre laxatives include psyllium (Metamucil), polycarbophil (FiberCon), and methylcellulose (Citrucel). It is important to start slowly with fibre laxatives and gradually increase the dosage while staying well-hydrated to minimise side effects such as bloating and gas.

Bulk-forming laxatives

To prevent constipation in the first place, it is recommended to eat a high-fibre diet consisting of whole grains, fruits, and leafy vegetables, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid constipating foods such as cheese or high-sugar, processed foods.

Osmotics

Osmotic laxatives are a type of laxative that treats constipation by pulling water from other body parts and sending it to the colon. As the water collects in the colon, it softens the stool, making it easier to pass. Osmotic laxatives are generally available without a prescription and are considered safe for occasional or short-term use. However, it is important to take them as directed to prevent side effects such as bloating, gas, or stomach cramps.

How Osmotics Work

Osmotic laxatives work by increasing the water content in the colon, which softens the stool and stimulates the colon walls to move it along. This increase in water content makes the stool softer and bulkier, triggering the colon to contract and push out the stool. This mechanism is similar to how bulk-forming laxatives work, but osmotics also have the added benefit of stimulating the colon walls.

Examples of Osmotics

Osmotic laxatives include commonly available over-the-counter medications such as:

• Polyethylene glycol (Gavilax®, MiraLAX®)
• Magnesium hydroxide solution (Dulcolax®, Ex-Lax®, Phillips'® Milk of Magnesia)
• Glycerin (Colace Glycerin®, Fleet Pedia-Lax®)

Safety and Side Effects

While osmotic laxatives are generally safe, it is important to follow the instructions on the medication to prevent side effects. These types of laxatives can cause dehydration, so it is crucial to drink plenty of fluids while taking them. Additionally, taking any type of laxatives for an extended period can lead to side effects and may worsen constipation. Therefore, it is recommended to use laxatives sparingly and only when necessary.

When to See a Doctor

If you are experiencing occasional constipation that has not improved with lifestyle changes or over-the-counter laxatives, it may be time to consult a doctor. Chronic constipation could be a symptom of an underlying condition, and a doctor can recommend or prescribe the most suitable treatment option.

Stool softeners

• Oral softgel capsules
• Rectal enema

The active ingredients in stool softeners are docusate sodium and docusate calcium. A common brand of docusate is Colace.

It can take between 12 to 72 hours for a stool softener that is taken as directed to start working. Stool softeners are considered safe to use, but possible side effects include stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea. It is recommended that you consult a doctor if your constipation does not improve within a week of using a stool softener.

It is important to note that stool softeners and laxatives are not meant for long-term use. Overuse of these medications can lead to health problems and hide symptoms that may indicate a more serious condition.

Lubricants

Lubricant laxatives, also known as emollient laxatives, are a type of laxative that doctors recommend for short-term relief from constipation. Lubricants work by coating the stools, making them slippery and easier to pass out of the body. They also lubricate the inside of the anus, aiding the passage of hard stools.

Mineral oil is a commonly used lubricant laxative. It works by keeping water in the stool and intestines, thus softening the stool and making it easier for the stool to pass through the intestines. This type of laxative is best used as a short-term cure for constipation. Mineral oil can absorb fat-soluble vitamins from the intestine over time, and it may also decrease the absorption of certain prescription drugs. Therefore, it is important not to take mineral oil simultaneously with other medications or supplements.

Glycerin suppositories are another example of a lubricant laxative. They lubricate the inside of the anus, making it easier to pass hard stools out of the body.

Lubricant laxatives are available over the counter and are generally safe for use. However, it is important to follow the directions on the package or a doctor's advice when using them.

Stimulants

Stimulant laxatives are one of the five basic types of laxatives, the others being osmotic, bulk-forming, stool softeners, and lubricants. They are used to treat constipation and are one of the faster-acting types of laxatives.

Stimulant laxatives trigger the intestines to contract and push out the stool. The active ingredient in stimulant laxatives is usually either senna (also known as sennosides) or bisacodyl. Senna is a natural stimulant laxative derived from the leaves and fruits of the senna plant. Senna stimulates the nerves in the large intestine, causing the colon to contract and push faeces out of the body. Bisacodyl is a synthetic stimulant laxative that works in a similar way to senna.

Stimulant laxatives are available in various forms, such as liquids, powders, chewables, tablets, and suppositories. Some common brand names of stimulant laxatives include Senexon, Fletcher's Castoria, Senokot, Black Draught, Feen-A-Mint, Correctol, Dulcolax, and Carter's Little Pills.

It is important to note that stimulant laxatives should not be used for more than a week unless specifically advised by a doctor. They can be habit-forming and can be harmful to the bowels if used for an extended period of time. Additionally, they should not be given to children under the age of 6 unless instructed by a pediatrician.

Before taking any laxative, it is always recommended to consult with a doctor or healthcare professional, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any existing health conditions.

Frequently asked questions