Using laxatives too much for weeks or months can make constipation worse. This includes a bowel blockage, also called an intestinal obstruction. Laxative use can be dangerous if constipation is caused by a serious condition. Don't take more unless your doctor tells you otherwise. If you're not sure whether a certain laxative is safe for you, ask a healthcare professional. Laxatives can interact with many medicines including certain antibiotics, heart and bone medicines. Your medical history and medicines you're taking may limit your laxative options. An imbalance of electrolytes can cause heart rhythm changes, weakness, confusion and seizures. Electrolytes include calcium, chloride, potassium, magnesium and sodium. After long-term use, some laxatives can lead to an electrolyte imbalance or other serious health issues. Oral laxatives can change how your body absorbs some medicines and nutrients. Trigger rhythmic contractions of intestinal muscles and soften stool Rectal suppositories (Dulcolax, Bisacodyl, Pedia-Lax) Trigger rhythmic contractions of intestinal muscles to eliminate stoolīelching, cramping, diarrhea, nausea, urine discoloration with senna and cascara derivatives Oral stimulants (Dulcolax, Senokot Bisacodyl, Senna/Sennosides) Oral stool softeners (Colace, Surfak, Docusate Calcium)Īdd moisture to stool to soften stool, allowing strain-free bowel movementsĮlectrolyte imbalance if used for a long time Oral bulk formers (Benefiber, Citrucel, FiberCon, Metamucil)Ībsorb water to form soft, bulky stool, prompting normal contraction of intestinal musclesīloating, gas, cramping or increased constipation if not taken with enough water Oral osmotics (Phillips' Milk of Magnesia, MiraLAX, Magnesium Hydroxide, Polyethylene glycol)ĭraw water into the colon to allow easier passage of stoolīloating, cramping, diarrhea, nausea, gas, increased thirst
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