Best Over-The-Counter Laxatives: Quick, Safe, And Effective Relief

Laxatives are over-the-counter (OTC) medications that help relieve constipation by softening stools or stimulating bowel movement. They are typically recommended for those experiencing occasional constipation or those with chronic conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. While laxatives can be purchased without a prescription, it is important to use them as directed to prevent side effects such as bloating, gas, and stomach cramps. It is also crucial to consult a healthcare provider before taking laxatives, especially for pregnant individuals or those on prescription medications.

Bulk-forming laxatives

Common bulk-forming laxatives include:

• Psyllium (Metamucil)
• Polycarbophil (FiberCon)
• Methylcellulose (Citrucel)
• Fybogel (ispaghula husk)

It is important to start slowly with bulk-forming laxatives and gradually increase the dosage while ensuring you drink plenty of fluids. They can take 12 hours to up to 3 days to work.

• During pregnancy or after giving birth
• Preparing for surgery
• Treating constipation in bedridden people
• Treating constipation caused by medication
• Preventing strain after surgery
• Restoring normal bowel function after a period of poor diet or physical inactivity
• Helping to reduce cholesterol
• Treating diarrhoea
• Treating constipation due to diet, lifestyle, recent surgery, or medication

Side effects of bulk-forming laxatives are rare but may include mild stomach pain, bloating, gas, and allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing or swallowing. People with kidney disease or diabetes are at a higher risk of electrolyte imbalances when taking laxatives, so it is important to consult a doctor before use if you have either of these conditions.

Emollient laxatives (stool softeners)

Emollient laxatives, also known as stool softeners, are over-the-counter (OTC) medications that help soften hard stools. They are typically used to treat mild, temporary, or chronic constipation. Unlike other types of laxatives, which stimulate the digestive tract or draw water into the intestine, stool softeners work by increasing moisture in the stool, making it easier to pass.

Stool softeners are taken orally and are available in capsule, liquid, and tablet form. Some common brand names include Colace, Correctol, Diocto, Doxinate, Ex-Lax Stool Softener, Fleet Sof-Lax, Modane Soft, Phillips' Stool Softener, and Surfak. The active ingredient in most stool softeners is docusate sodium, a surfactant that helps to "wet" and soften the stool.

It is important to note that stool softeners do not provide immediate relief. It may take up to 72 hours for them to induce a bowel movement. They are intended for short-term use, and healthcare providers typically recommend them when a high-fibre diet, adequate fluid intake, and regular exercise do not provide constipation relief.

Stool softeners are generally well-tolerated, and side effects are rare. However, some users have reported mild side effects such as throat irritation with liquid stool softeners. It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before taking stool softeners on a long-term basis, as prolonged use may lead to a tolerance for docusate sodium, resulting in bouts of diarrhoea.

Lubricant laxatives

To use a lubricant laxative, follow the directions on the product package or consult your doctor or pharmacist. It is important to measure the dose carefully and shake the bottle before each dose if required. Lubricant laxatives should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 2 hours apart from other medications, and should not be taken for more than 7 days unless directed by a doctor. It is also important to remain upright after taking the medication and may take up to 8 hours to work.

Some common side effects of lubricant laxatives include rectal leakage, which can cause clothing stains, irritation, and itching around the anus. Lowering or dividing the dose may help reduce these side effects. Although rare, allergic reactions and serious side effects such as coughing and difficulty breathing may occur. It is important to consult a doctor if any adverse reactions occur.

Stimulant laxatives

Some popular brands of stimulant laxatives include bisacodyl (Correctol, Dulcolax, Feen-a-Mint) and sennosides (Ex-Lax, Senokot). Prunes (dried plums) are also an effective colonic stimulant and are a tasty, natural option.

It is important to note that stimulant laxatives should not be used daily or regularly. This is because they may weaken the body's natural ability to defecate and can cause laxative dependency. They may also cause side effects such as cramping and diarrhoea. Therefore, stimulant laxatives are intended for short-term use only.

Osmotic laxatives

The term "osmotic" refers to the movement of fluid through a membrane so that the concentration is equal on both sides. Osmotic laxatives alter the balance of fluid in the colon by using substances such as salts, sugars, and other organic compounds to encourage the movement of water into the lumen (the inside of the colon). This process increases the amount of fluid in the intestines, softening the stool and making bowel movements more frequent.

Some common osmotic laxatives include:

• Polyethylene glycol (PEG): An organic compound derived from petroleum that can be safely ingested to manage constipation. It is available over the counter under brand names such as 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. Lactulose is available by prescription under brand names such as Cephulac, Duphalac, and Kristalose.
• Sorbitol: Another non-absorbable sugar with an action similar to lactulose. It is available over the counter and by prescription under brand names such as Arlex and GeriCare.
• Magnesium citrate: Magnesium in salt form combined with citric acid. The salts help draw water into the lumen. It is available over the counter under brand names such as Citrate of Magnesia, Citroma, and LiquiPrep.
• Magnesium hydroxide: A milder form of magnesium sold under the brand name Milk of Magnesia. It is available over the counter and is also used as an antacid.

While osmotic laxatives can be effective, overuse may cause dehydration and a loss of electrolytes like sodium, calcium, and potassium. These minerals are essential for regulating heartbeats, muscle contractions, and other key functions in the body. Common side effects of osmotic laxatives include nausea, bloating, cramping, flatulence, and diarrhea.

Frequently asked questions