Laxatives for Constipation: Essential Facts and Insights



Is your bowel movement painful? Do you experience cramps in your stomach while passing stools? Do you feel that you have not fully emptied your bowels? If the answer is Yes, then you are suffering from constipation. Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal problems. It occurs when your bowel movements become less frequent and your stools become dry and hard to pass. However, constipation relief pills or laxatives can largely help you cure this. 

What are laxatives? 

Laxatives are medications used to relieve constipation. These are available over the counter without the need for any prescription. Laxatives are available in the form of liquids, tablets or capsules that can be consumed orally. However, in chronic constipation, they can also be given through the rectum — for example, with suppositories or enemas.

Types of laxatives

There are several types of laxatives that work differently to relieve constipation. Some of these are: 

  1. Bulk-forming laxatives

These laxatives stimulate the colon and draw water into the stool increasing the bulk and making them easier to push out. These are one of the safest laxatives but remember to drink plenty of water while taking them. 


  1. Osmotic-type laxatives

These laxatives pull water into the colon area, thereby hydrating and softening the stool. Thus, it becomes easy to push it out. These are made up of lactulose and ispaghula husk and are available in tablet and powder form both. 

  1. Stimulant Laxatives

These work by contracting the digestive tract muscles to induce a bowel movement. These are available as tablets, powders, chewable, liquids, and also as suppositories. However, regular use of these should be avoided as they can make the bowel lose its ability to contract.

  1. Saline laxatives

These work by drawing water into the small intestine to induce bowel movement. These are mostly used as enemas to empty the bowel before invasive procedures or surgery.

  1. Stool softener laxatives

These laxatives increase the amount of water absorbed by the stools, thereby making them softer and easier to release. These are available in the form of tablets or pills.

  1. Lubricant laxatives

Lubricant laxatives work by coating the surfaces of stools and intestinal lining to keep in moisture. Thus, the stools become softer and easier to pass.

  1. Prokinetic laxatives

These are used in chronic constipation conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and chronic idiopathic constipation.

Side Effects of Laxatives

Like any other medication, constipation relief pills or laxatives may also have certain side effects. Some of the common ones are:

  • Bloating

  • Cramps in the abdomen

  • Vomiting

  • Nausea

  • Headache

  • Diarrhoea

  • Dehydration 

  • Loss of normal bowel function

Misuse of Laxatives

Some people misuse laxatives as the best metabolism booster pills for weight loss. It is a mistaken belief that after overeating, calories can be rushed out of the body before they are absorbed. However, this can cause serious health complications. 

Ayurvedic or Natural Laxatives 

You may also consider using ayurvedic or natural laxatives available at your home. These are much more beneficial than using medicinal laxatives. Some of these are:

  • Triphala

  • Black salt

  • Chia seeds

  • Senna

  • Legumes

  • Berries

  • Flaxseeds

  • Castor oil

  • Leafy vegetables

  • Apples

  • Olive oil

  • Prunes

  • Kiwifruit 

Bottomline 

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, working out regularly, having a balanced diet, and staying hydrated are the best ways to cure constipation. However, you can consult your doctor to take the best pills for constipation. But, using medicinal laxatives comes with side effects. Thus, it is always better to sort to natural or ayurvedic laxatives when needed.
Location: Texas, USA

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