by Kimberley Heit

Created on: October 12, 2008   Last Updated: October 15, 2008

A laxative is simply an agent which encourages bowel movements. Laxatives are generally used to treat constipation, or to clear the bowel for medical examinations. Understanding how different laxatives work is vital in helping you to determine the right one for your particular set of circumstances.

The main types of laxatives include; bulking agents, suppositories, osmotics, lubricants, plant based laxatives and even humble food. The following information describes how these laxatives work, what their advantages and disadvantages are and any cautions:

BULKING AGENTS

How do they work?

Bulking agents quite simply bulk up the waste in our bodies with water both softening and stimulating its release.

Brands to look for: Metamucil, Citrucel and any form of dietary fiber.

Advantages- they can be taken regularly because they have quite a gentle effect on the bowel. These are a good choice for people who suffer from mild, but chronic constipation.

Disadvantages- they typically take at least 12 hours to kick in and are not very effective for severe constipation.

Cautions- Make sure you drink lots of water if you are taking this form of laxative because they cause increased water loss. Some users report increased flatulence as a side effect of taking this form of laxative.

SUPPOSITORY

How do they work?

These laxatives contain chemicals like glycerin or bisacodyl that stimulate the nerve endings in the bowel causing the muscles to contract repetitively, thereby encouraging the release of waste.

Brands to look for: Bisacodyl, Dulcolax, Magic bullet

Advantages: they work promptly between 15 minutes to an hour and they do not tend to react with other medications you might be taking. There are versions for young children who can not take an oral laxative. They can be taken in conjunction with a tablet form of laxative to clear the bowels for medical procedures.

Disadvantages: inserting the suppository into the rectum can be slightly embarrassing or uncomfortable.

Cautions: this form of laxative is not intended for long term use and doing so may end up contributing to constipation. Do not take these orally. Some users report rectal irritation after use.

OSMOTICS

How do they work?

Osmotic laxatives draw water into the colon to make the bowel movements softer and easier to pass.

Types to look for: commonly used ingredients to look for include; milk of magnesia, Epsom salts and sorbitol. They can be used to provide a whole bowel clean prior to medical procedures.

Advantages: they are highly effective

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