Laxatives can help relieve and prevent constipation.
Not all laxatives are safe for long-term use.
Overuse can lead to dependency and fewer bowel movements.
Type of laxative |
How they work |
Side effects |
Oral stool softeners(Colace, Surfak) |
Adds moisture for easier bowel movements |
Electrolyte imbalance if used over a long time |
Oral osmotics(Milk of Magnesia, Miralax) |
Adds moisture to the colon for better bowel movements |
Bloating, cramping, diarrhea, nausea, gas, increased thirst |
Oral bulk formers(Benefiber, Citrucel, FiberCon, Metamucil) |
Creates softer stool for easier bowel movements |
Bloating, gas, cramping or increased constipation if not taken with enough water |
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/constipation/in-depth/laxatives/art-20045906
