Many laxative options exist — from powders you dissolve in water, to tablets, wafers or liquids. Some options you take by mouth and some you place into your rectum, as in the case of enemas or suppositories. Regardless of which option you choose, they all aim for similar results. However, how a particular laxative produces a bowel movement varies. For example, some soften the stool, whereas others create muscle contractions in the intestines that propel the stool forward. Laxatives aren't all the same, so it's important to find one that best suits your needs. Bulk-forming laxatives: Also called fiber supplements Also referred to as fiber supplements, bulk-forming laxatives absorb water from the intestine, making the stool soft and bulky. A larger stool mass helps trigger normal contractions of the intestines to expel waste. These products often relieve constipation within 12 hours, but some people may not have results for two or three days. Because these laxatives are so absorbent, make sure you take them with plenty of water. If you don't drink enough water, the supplements can actually increase constipation. Over-the-counter brand names of bulk-forming laxatives include: Metamucil Citrucel Fibercon Stool softeners: Bowel movements with less strain Just as the name implies, stool softeners make your stool soft by helping liquids mix with the stool, thereby making it easier to pass. Such laxatives don't promote bowel movements. Instead, they make the stool softer so you can have a bowel movement without straining. Stool softeners, also referred to as emollients, often take one to two days to work. Some people, though, may find that it takes up to five days. Doctors often recommend this type of laxative after surgery or childbirth, when it's especially important to have bowel movements without straining. They're sold over the counter under several brand names, including Colace Surfak Lubricants: Stool coating promotes easier passage Lubricants coat the bowel and stool with a waterproof film that allows easier passage through the colon and rectum. The lubricant also helps retain moisture in the stool to prevent it from becoming hard and dry. However, oily lubricants also block the absorption of key vitamins and minerals, so make sure you don't take this type of laxative two hours before or after a meal. Lubricants generally aren't recommended for long-term use except in special circumstances. Don't use lubricants if gastroesophageal reflux or vomiting is a problem because it may lead to serious oil-related aspiration pneumonia. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns. It usually takes six to eight hours to produce results using a lubricant. Mineral oil is the most common type of lubricant. Saline laxatives: Adding water content to stool This type of laxative works by significantly increasing the water content in your stool by drawing fluids from surrounding body tissues. Saline laxatives usually work within 30 minutes to three hours. If you take a larger dose on an empty stomach, however, you may experience quicker results. In some cases, depending on the type and dose, results may be delayed for six to eight hours or overnight. Some saline laxatives are made with magnesium salts, which may be toxic in higher doses and may be dangerous for children or even those adults with certain kidney diseases. Therefore, they aren't recommended for long-term or repeated relief of constipation. One type of saline laxative, milk of magnesia, may be safe for longer-term use if taken in small doses as recommended. Check with your doctor if you need to take this type of laxative for an extended period of time. Epsom salts and milk of magnesia are the two most common types of saline laxatives. Stimulants: Prompting contractions to pass stool Stimulant laxatives — the most powerful laxatives — cause the muscles of the intestine to contract, which pushes the stool forward. Even though this type of laxative is perhaps the most popular, it's also the most likely to cause side effects, such as cramping, diarrhea or nausea. Stimulants are usually taken at bedtime to produce results in the morning. However, some people may find that it takes up to 24 hours. Castor oil, one type of stimulant, usually takes about two to six hours. Taking a stimulant laxative on an empty stomach produces faster results. Over-the-counter brand names include: Dulcolax Ex-Lax Senokot Take stimulant laxatives only when other measures fail to induce a bowel movement and after discussing their use with your doctor. Combinations: Check labels carefully Some products contain more than one type of laxative. For example, you can buy the following combinations: A bulk-forming laxative and a stimulant A bulk-forming laxative, a stimulant and a stool softener A saline laxative and a lubricant A stimulant and a stool softener Combination products, however, may not be any more likely to produce results and may cause increased side effects due to having multiple ingredients. Make sure that you look at the product label carefully to determine whether it contains more than one type of laxative.
Causes of Laxative Abuse
Just because laxatives are available over the counter doesn't mean that they're harmless. Regular use of laxatives can actually aggravate constipation, and your body can become dependent on them for all bowel movements. In severe cases, overuse of laxatives can cause damage to the nerves, muscles and tissues of the large intestine. Other problems associated with laxatives include: Abdominal cramping Nausea Gas Bloating Decreased nutrient absorption Diarrhea In addition, laxatives may be especially dangerous if your constipation is due to a more serious condition, such as bowel obstruction or appendicitis. See your doctor if you have unexplained changes in bowel patterns or habits or if your constipation lasts longer than seven days, despite changes in diet or exercise. To avoid dependence on laxatives, make sure that you use them only periodically and follow the instructions carefully. If you use laxatives on a regular basis, talk with your doctor about other ways to manage your constipation.
Signs and Symptoms of Laxative Abuse
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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