Laxatives: How They Work And When To Use Them

Constipation is a common issue for children, with around 30-35% of children affected. It can be caused by various factors, such as infrequent bowel movements, hard stools, or a diet low in fibre and water. To treat constipation, doctors may recommend a change in diet or the use of laxatives. Laxatives are medications that help treat and prevent constipation by either softening the stool or stimulating a bowel movement. They are usually mild drugs that are safe for children but should only be used under medical supervision.

Laxatives are a group of medications that relieve constipation

There are four main types of laxatives:

Stool softeners

Stool softeners add moisture to the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. An example of a stool softener is docusate (Colace).

Osmotic laxatives

Osmotic laxatives increase the water content in the intestines, which helps to soften the stool and promote its faster transit through the colon. Common osmotic laxatives include polyethylene glycol 3350 (Miralax) and lactulose.

Lubricant laxatives

Lubricant laxatives coat the stool, making it slippery and easier to pass. Mineral oil is an example of a lubricant laxative.

Stimulant laxatives

Stimulant laxatives work by stimulating the rectal muscles and helping to push the stool out. Examples of stimulant laxatives include bisacodyl (Dulcolax) and senna derivatives (Senokot).

It is important to follow the dosage instructions for laxatives carefully and not to give more than one type of laxative at a time. While laxatives are generally safe for children, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before administering them to ensure proper usage and avoid potential side effects.

Laxatives come in oral and rectal forms

Laxatives are available in oral and rectal forms. Oral medications may be pills or a powder that you mix with water and drink. Rectal laxatives are in the form of suppositories and enemas.

Oral Laxatives

Oral laxatives are typically used to treat constipation in children when lifestyle changes, such as increasing water and fibre intake, are not enough. They work by either softening the stool or stimulating a bowel movement.

There are several types of oral laxatives, including:

• Osmotic laxatives: These laxatives draw water into the stool to help it move through the colon quicker. An example is Polyethylene glycol 3350 (Miralax), which is the first-choice treatment for constipation in children.
• Stool softeners: These laxatives increase the amount of water and fat in the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. An example is docusate (Colace).
• Stimulant laxatives: These medications increase the movement of the intestines, helping your child to poop. Examples include bisacodyl (Dulcolax).

Rectal Laxatives

Rectal laxatives, on the other hand, are used when there is an accumulation of faecal material creating a blockage. They work more quickly than oral laxatives and are available in the following forms:

• Suppositories: These are solid, cone-shaped medications that are inserted into the rectum. They can be used to soften the stool or deliver medication directly to the affected area. An example is glycerin suppositories.
• Enemas: These are liquid solutions that are injected into the rectum to stimulate a bowel movement. They are typically used in more severe cases of constipation or when other treatments have failed. An example is a mineral oil enema.

Stool softeners add moisture to stools

Laxatives are medications that can help treat constipation in kids. They are used when lifestyle changes, like adding more water and fibre to the diet, are not enough. Laxatives work by either softening the stool or stimulating a bowel movement.

Stool softeners are a type of laxative that can provide relief from constipation. They are especially helpful for people who should avoid straining while having a bowel movement, such as those who have recently had a heart attack or surgery. Stool softeners are a type of emollient or surfactant laxative that work by increasing the amount of water and fat absorbed by the stool. This makes the stool softer and easier to pass.

Osmotic laxatives increase water in the intestines

Osmotic laxatives are a type of medicine used to treat constipation. They work by drawing water into the colon, softening the stool, and making it easier to pass. This is especially helpful for people who do not consume enough water.

Osmotic laxatives are available in various forms, including oral solutions, powders, and tablets, and can be bought over the counter or with a prescription. They are generally safe for children but should be used under the recommendation and supervision of a healthcare professional.

Some common osmotic laxatives include:

• Polyethylene glycol (PEG): This is often prescribed in powder form and is mixed with water or other fluids. It increases the water content in the colon, softening the stool.
• Lactulose: A synthetic sugar solution that acts as an osmotic laxative by drawing water into the colon and promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.
• Magnesium hydroxide: Also known as milk of magnesia, this osmotic laxative attracts water into the intestines, leading to increased bowel movements. It is available in liquid and tablet forms.

Lubricant laxatives coat stools so they are easier to pass

A laxative is a medicine that helps you have a bowel movement if you're constipated. Constipation is when you struggle to poop, have hard or dry stools, and feel that your bowels aren't empty even after passing some stool.

Lubricant laxatives, also known as emollient laxatives or stool softeners, are a specific type of laxative. They work by coating your colon and stool with a slick layer of oil, usually mineral oil, to prevent water loss and make the stool slippery. This makes it easier for the stool to pass through the colon. Lubricant laxatives are typically recommended for immediate relief from short-term constipation.

Mineral oil, the active ingredient in lubricant laxatives, can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamins A, D, E, and K. Therefore, lubricant laxatives are not recommended for regular or long-term use. Additionally, mineral oil should not be taken at the same time as other medications or supplements, as it may affect their absorption.

Lubricant laxatives are available in different forms, such as oral softgel capsules, oral liquid, or enemas. It is important to follow the instructions on the medication to ensure safe and effective use.

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