About Laxatives

Laxatives are types of over-the-counter products to help relieve constipation and aid one in the production of a bowel movement. These products work by stimulating the intestines, softening stool or lubricating stool to produce a bowel movement. These products should only be used as needed and under a physician's recommendation.

Function

• Laxatives can be used to speed up the occurrence of a bowel movement. They can be used when a person has difficulty achieving a bowel movement independently. The frequency of bowel movements varies from person to person; therefore, these products should be used when a person is constipated and not because he has infrequent bowel movements. These products temporarily provide constipation relief, though prolonged symptoms should be checked out by a physician. These products can be taken orally or as an enema to stimulate the colon.

Types

• Laxatives come in a variety of forms to suit one's preference. They are offered as pills, suppositories, powder, liquids and even chocolate-flavored candies. Different types can soften the stool, lubricate the stool or create bulky stool that is easier to pass. Types that create bulky stool often include fiber or psyllium as they bypass the digestive tract and absorb water in the intestines. The lubricating type, such as mineral oil, covers the stool and makes it easier to pass.

Considerations

• Natural alternatives to produce a bowel movement should be considered and attempted before resorting to laxative use. By including more fiber in one's daily diet, bowel movements will become more regular and easier to achieve. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of liquids helps the digestive system achieve regular bowel movements. Regular exercise is also beneficial. Laxatives should only be considered as a last resort to produce a bowel movement and should be used for a limited time because of their dependency-forming properties.

Misconceptions

• While some may use laxatives to try to purge the body of excess calories after a large meal, these products only help to stimulate bowel movements and do not prevent the digestive system from absorbing the calories in food. The bowel movements created by these products contain very little nutrients or calories, as they have already been absorbed by the body. Laxatives are thought to be a method of purging by those with eating disorders, but these products do not inhibit or prevent the body from absorbing calories.

Warning

• Overuse of laxatives can lead to a dependency on the drug to achieve a bowel movement. Extended use can lead to nerve damage in the colon, which will cause the colon to lose its ability to contract. An overdose can also lead to dehydration, which, if untreated, can lead to major organ failure. When taking these supplements, it is imperative to keep the body hydrated to prevent major side effects.