Which Laxatives Are Best for Chronic Constipation, and What Are the Common Side Effects to Watch For?

Constipation gets uncomfortable, especially on a long-term basis. Laxative medication exists for softening stool and encouraging bowel movements, and this article will guide you on that.

What Are Laxative Medicines?

Laxatives are treatment options for constipation that either soften stools, encourage bowel movements, or aid the passage of stored fecal matter. Several treatment options exist, differing in how they address the different symptoms associated with constipation. It is advisable to address the underlying causes of constipation rather than relying on laxative treatment for an extended period of time.

Which Laxatives are Best for Chronic Constipation?

The best laxatives for chronic constipation can vary from person to person. For chronic cases of constipation, an appropriate treatment will likely utilize a laxative whose mechanism of action is the addition of fiber to stool and bulking agent. In this regard, medication like psyllium will be indicated. For cases of chronic constipation in which hard stool is present, treatment will likely include additives that draw water into the bowel: polyethylene glycol (PEG) and lactulose.

For constipation that does not respond to will stimulants like bisacodyl and senna will be used. For constipation in which stool is hard and difficult to pass, treatment will likely rely on stool softener medication such as docusate. The treatment will be based on other medications, the patient’s condition, and the symptoms present.

Uses of Laxative Medicines

Laxatives ease constipation in many different ways. First, they can soften stool. This is important if your stools are hard and difficult to pass (constipation) or are causing you pain (when you have to strain to pass them). Second, laxatives can facilitate movement of stools in the large intestine in order to stimulate elimination. Depending on the reason for prescribing the laxative, some can help relax the muscles of the intestinal wall to avoid straining during a bowel movement. In cases where laxatives are prescribed post surgery for example, they should be used based on the instructions or directions given.

Main Side Effects and Associated Symptoms

Different laxatives for chronic constipation can cause different side effects that can include diarrhea, abdominal or rectal pain, nausea, gas, and bloating. Osmotic laxatives can cause excessive gas and loose stools while stimulants cause cramps.

Excess use of laxatives (and resulting diarrhea) can be dangerous and lead to dehydration and/or electrolyte imbalance. Seek urgent care if your constipation continues, becomes severe, or is accompanied by blood in your stools, abdominal pain, weight loss, vomiting, severe constipation, change in stool habits, and/or chronic constipation.

Laxative Treatment and Safety Measures

For chronic  constipation, drink plenty of water, eat a high fiber diet, exercise, and use the bathroom at the same time everyday. Laxatives should not be used if constipation does not resolve or for an unexplained reason.

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Conclusion

When deciding on a laxative, it is important to take into consideration the chronicity and severity of constipation. For constipation of a longer, chronic nature, bulk and osmotic laxatives are often the first line therapies, while for a more short-term solution a stimulant laxative may be preferred. Many laxatives induce abdominal discomfort, bloating, cramping, diarrhea and dehydration, and so should be used with extreme caution. Should constipation persist and become chronic or should constipation begin to be accompanied with more severe symptoms, then it is important to seek the advice of a health care professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.