LAXATIVES

Laxatives are drugs used for the treatment of constipation. Constipation may be defined as having 3 or fewer bowel movements per week or excessive difficulty or straining with bowel movements. Every individual has different bowel habits. It is important to know what is normal for you. Causes of constipation include poor diet, physical abnormalities, disease and medications.

A diet high in fiber, drinking at least 8 glasses of water, and exercise are important factors for maintaining normal bowel habits. Laxatives act to produce a stool or to make passing a stool more comfortable.

Types of laxatives include:

Bulk-forming products soften the stool, making it easier to pass out of the body. This kind of laxative should be taken with at least 1 full glass of water or juice. Be sure to separate bulk-forming laxatives from other oral medicines by 2 hours. These laxatives are usually safe for long-term use.
Stimulant laxatives speed up the elimination process by causing the intestines to contract. Stimulant laxatives are not recommended for long-term use.
Lubricant laxatives, such as mineral oil, soften the stool and makes it easier to pass the stool. These should not be used on a long-term basis.
Saline laxatives, such as magnesium citrate, increase the salts in the stool that draw fluid into the stools, making them softer and easier to pass out of the body. Like stimulant laxatives, these are not recommended for long-term use.

Do not over use laxatives. Doing so will cause diarrhea and dependence upon them for regular bowel habits. Laxatives are intended for short-term use, generally less than 1 week.

Over-using laxatives can have a negative effect:

stimulant laxatives may cause abdominal cramps and gas
lubricant laxatives may coat the intestines with oil, preventing vitamin absorption and
saline laxatives may cause an imbalance in the blood with prolonged use

Remember, diseases such as cancer can cause a change in bowel habits. If the change continues for 2 weeks, call your healthcare provider.

For more information on normal bowel function or safe use of these agents, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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