What are the different types of laxatives?

Different Types of Laxatives Explained Simply

Laxatives are medicines that help you poop when you're having trouble going to the bathroom, and they work in different ways depending on their type. 1

Main Types of Laxatives

Osmotic Laxatives (Most Recommended)

• These pull water into your poop to make it softer and easier to pass 1, 2
• Examples include:
  • PEG (Polyethylene Glycol): Doesn't change the amount of salt in your body and works well 1
  • Lactulose: Takes 2-3 days to work and might cause gas or stomach discomfort 1
  • Magnesium salts: Work quickly but should be used carefully if you have kidney problems 1

Stimulant Laxatives

• These wake up your intestines and make them squeeze to push poop out 1
• Best taken at bedtime to help you poop in the morning 1
• Examples include:
  • Plant-based types (senna, aloe, cascara): These are broken down by bacteria in your colon 1, 3
  • Bisacodyl and sodium picosulfate: Work similarly to plant-based ones but are made differently 1

Suppositories and Enemas

• These are medicines that go directly into your bottom 1
• Work faster than pills you swallow 1
• Best when your poop is stuck at the very end of your intestines 1
• Types include:
  • Glycerin suppositories: Soften poop and help your intestines move 1
  • Bisacodyl suppositories: Stimulate your intestines to push poop out 1

Laxatives Not Usually Recommended

Bulk Laxatives

• These are fiber supplements that make your poop bigger and softer 1, 4
• Need to drink lots of water with them 1
• Not good for people taking pain medicines that cause constipation 1

Stool Softeners

• Make poop softer by mixing water into it 1
• Example: Docusate sodium - doesn't have strong evidence that it works well 1

Liquid Paraffin (Mineral Oil)

• Makes poop slippery 1
• Can be dangerous if accidentally breathed into lungs 1
• Can cause leakage and skin irritation 1

Safety Tips

• Most laxatives are safe when used correctly and not too often 5
• PEG (Polyethylene Glycol) is considered very effective and safe 6, 7
• Stimulant laxatives like senna are generally safe but can cause cramping 8
• Always follow the instructions on the package 1
• Drinking more water, eating fiber, and staying active can help prevent constipation 1

When to Use Each Type

• For regular constipation: Try osmotic laxatives first (like PEG) 1, 6
• For quick relief: Stimulant laxatives or suppositories 1
• For poop stuck at the end (in rectum): Suppositories or enemas 1

Remember that laxatives should be used when needed, but it's better to prevent constipation by drinking plenty of water, eating fiber-rich foods, and staying active! 1