Marc Holland
Laxatives are a common treatment for constipation, which affects at least 2.5 million people in the US annually. Laxatives are available over the counter (OTC) and by prescription. OTC laxatives are a good first option for treating constipation, and they come in various forms, including pills, capsules, liquids, suppositories, and enemas. They work in different ways, but most increase water content in the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. Examples of good OTC laxatives include polyethylene glycol (MiraLAX), bisacodyl (Dulcolax), and senna (Ex-Lax).
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Miralax, Ex-Lax, Ducolax, Dulcolax, Metamucil, Konsyl, Senokot, Colace, Phillips' Milk of Magnesia, Citroma, Glycolax, Senokot, Fleet Enema, FiberCon, Citrucel, Equalactin, Fiber-Lax, Benefiber, Correctol, Feen-a-Mint, Kristalose, Pizensy, Trulance, Linzess, Amitiza, Motegrity, Ibsrela, Symproic, Movantik, Relistor |
| Active ingredients | Polyethylene glycol, Bisacodyl, Senna, Magnesium hydroxide, Magnesium citrate, Docusate sodium, Docusate calcium, Lactulose, Lactitol, Calcium polycarbophil, Methylcellulose, Psyllium, Mineral oil, Glycerin, Sodium phosphates, Senna-S, Dok Plus |
| Types | Bulk-forming, Emollient, Lubricant, Stimulant, Osmotic, Hyperosmolar, Suppository, Enema, Stool softener |
| Time to work | 6-12 hours, 15-60 minutes, 1-3 days, 12-72 hours, a few days, a couple of days, 3 days |
What You'll Learn
Polyethylene glycol (MiraLAX)
Polyethylene glycol, also known by the brand name MiraLAX, is a popular over-the-counter laxative medication used to relieve occasional constipation. It is available in powder form, which is mixed with a beverage before consumption. The typical dose for adults and children aged 17 and above is 17 grams mixed with 4 to 8 ounces of liquid, taken once daily for up to a week. Most people experience a bowel movement within 1 to 3 days without the harsh side effects commonly associated with laxatives, such as cramping, bloating, and sudden urgency.
Polyethylene glycol is an osmotic laxative, which means it works by drawing fluid into the colon, softening the stool, and making it easier to pass. This mechanism of action has made it a preferred choice for many doctors and patients. It is generally well-tolerated, with mild side effects such as nausea, bloating, and passing gas that may improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication.
MiraLAX is safe for short-term use and is effective in providing gentle constipation relief. It is important to note that it should not be used for more than a week without consulting a healthcare provider, as extended use may lead to laxative dependence and chronic constipation. Additionally, individuals with a history of irritable bowel syndrome or kidney problems should consult their provider before taking this medication.
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Bisacodyl (Dulcolax)
Bisacodyl, also known by the brand name Dulcolax, is a stimulant laxative used to treat constipation. It works by increasing intestinal movement, helping stools to pass more easily. It also softens stools.
Bisacodyl comes in tablet or suppository form. The tablets are taken orally with water and produce a bowel movement within 6 to 12 hours. It is recommended to take the medication at night for a bowel movement in the morning. The suppositories are for rectal use and produce a much faster result, usually within 15 to 60 minutes, so it is best to stay close to a toilet after using them.
Bisacodyl is available over the counter in small packs of up to 20 tablets from supermarkets. It is recommended for adults and young people aged 12 years and over to take 1 to 3 tablets in a single daily dose for up to 7 days. It is advised to start with the lowest dose and increase if needed. For children under 12, a doctor should be consulted for dosing instructions.
Bisacodyl should not be taken within 1 hour of consuming dairy products or antacids as these can interfere with the medicine's effectiveness. It can also cause side effects such as nausea, diarrhoea, stomach pain or cramps, and allergic reactions. It is not recommended for long-term use as it can lead to dependence and electrolyte imbalances.
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Bulk-forming laxatives
These laxatives are generally safe for healthy individuals, but side effects may include mild stomach pain, bloating, gas, and allergic reactions such as difficulty swallowing or breathing. It is important to take bulk-forming laxatives with plenty of water to prevent bowel obstruction and stay well-hydrated throughout the day. They usually take 12 hours to a few days to provide relief.
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Osmotic laxatives
Common side effects of osmotic laxatives include nausea, bloating, cramping, flatulence, and diarrhea. Overuse of osmotic laxatives can lead to dehydration and the loss of electrolytes like sodium, calcium, and potassium. These minerals are essential for regulating heartbeats, muscle contractions, and other key functions in the body.
If you are considering using osmotic laxatives, be sure to follow the dosing instructions carefully. It is also recommended to eat plenty of fibre-rich foods to optimise digestive health. For chronic constipation, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider to identify the underlying cause, as the condition may be improved with diet, exercise, and increased fluid intake.
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Stimulant laxatives
Some popular brands of stimulant laxatives include:
- Bisacodyl (Dulcolax)
- Senna (Fletcher's Laxative)
- Correctol
- Feen-a-Mint
- Ex-Lax
- Senokot
- Prunes (dried plums)
It is important to note that stimulant laxatives may weaken the body's natural ability to defecate and can lead to laxative dependency. They should not be used daily or regularly and are intended for short-term use only.
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Frequently asked questions
Some popular over-the-counter laxatives include Miralax, Dulcolax, and Metamucil.
Constipation is typically characterised by fewer than three bowel movements per week, straining during bowel movements, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation. If you are experiencing these symptoms, a laxative may be helpful. However, it is important to first try increasing your fluid intake, dietary fibre, and physical activity, as these are often effective remedies for constipation.
Laxatives are generally safe when used correctly and for a short period of time (around one week). However, it is important to drink plenty of fluids when taking laxatives to reduce the risk of side effects. Side effects may include cramping, gas, bloating, nausea, and diarrhoea. Long-term use or overuse of laxatives can lead to health problems, including laxative dependency and electrolyte imbalances.
