From the Guidelines
Yes, laxatives can effectively relieve constipation, and the most recent and highest quality study recommends using polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a first-line treatment 1. According to the american gastroenterological association-american college of gastroenterology clinical practice guideline, PEG is a long-chain polymer of ethylene oxide that acts as an osmotic laxative, and it has been shown to be efficacious in individuals with chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) for up to 6 months 1.
Laxative Options
Some of the available over-the-counter options for relieving constipation include:
- Osmotic laxatives like polyethylene glycol (MiraLAX, 17g dissolved in 8oz of water daily), which draw water into the intestines
- Stimulant laxatives such as bisacodyl (Dulcolax, 5-10mg tablets) or senna (Senokot, 8.6-17.2mg at bedtime), which increase intestinal contractions
- Stool softeners like docusate sodium (Colace, 100mg 1-3 times daily)
- Bulk-forming laxatives such as psyllium (Metamucil, 1 tablespoon in water 1-3 times daily)
Treatment Approach
For occasional constipation, a stimulant or osmotic laxative typically works within 6-12 hours. For chronic issues, it is recommended to start with lifestyle changes like increasing fiber intake (25-30g daily), drinking more water (8 glasses daily), and regular exercise 1.
Important Considerations
If constipation persists beyond a week despite laxative use, or if you experience severe abdominal pain, blood in stool, or unexplained weight loss, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider as these may indicate a more serious condition 1. Additionally, the use of laxatives should be balanced with strategies for prevention and self-care, including ensuring privacy and comfort to allow a patient to defaecate normally, positioning, increased fluid intake, and increased activity and mobility within patient limits 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
USE • relieves occasional constipation (irregularity) • generally produces a bowel movement in 1 to 3 days PURPOSE Osmotic Laxative
Yes, a laxative can help relieve constipation.
- The drug label for polyethylene glycol (PO) states that it relieves occasional constipation 2.
- It is also described as an Osmotic Laxative 2, which helps to produce a bowel movement.
From the Research
Laxatives for Constipation Relief
- Laxatives can be used to help relieve constipation, as they can soften stool, increase bowel movements, and improve symptoms of constipation 3, 4, 5.
- There are different types of laxatives, including osmotic laxatives such as polyethylene glycol (PEG) and lactulose, and stimulant laxatives such as senna 4, 5, 6.
- Studies have shown that PEG is more effective than lactulose in treating chronic constipation, with better outcomes in terms of stool frequency, stool form, and relief of abdominal pain 4, 5.
- Senna has also been shown to be effective in treating constipation in children with anorectal malformations, and may be a better option than PEG in this population 6.
- Laxatives can be used as a first-line treatment for functional constipation, and can be effective in both adults and children 5, 7.
Types of Laxatives
- Osmotic laxatives, such as PEG, work by drawing water into the bowel to soften stool and increase bowel movements 4, 5.
- Stimulant laxatives, such as senna, work by stimulating the muscles in the bowel to move stool through the digestive system 6.
- Laxatives can be administered orally or rectally, and can be used in combination with other treatments, such as dietary changes and biofeedback therapy 3, 7.
Safety and Efficacy
- Laxatives are generally safe and well-tolerated, but can cause side effects such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and electrolyte imbalances 4, 5, 6.
- The effectiveness of laxatives can vary depending on the individual and the type of constipation being treated 3, 7.
- It is important to follow the recommended dosage and usage instructions for laxatives, and to consult with a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen 3, 7.