How do laxatives work to relieve constipation. What are the different types of laxatives available. Can laxatives cause stomach cramps and how to alleviate them. Are there any risks associated with long-term laxative use.

The Purpose and Mechanism of Laxatives

Laxatives are medications designed to promote bowel movements and alleviate constipation. They function by either increasing the water content in stool or stimulating intestinal muscle contractions to facilitate the movement of waste through the digestive tract. While laxatives can be effective for occasional constipation relief, their prolonged or excessive use may lead to unwanted side effects.

Why do people use laxatives? The primary reasons include:

• Treating occasional constipation
• Managing chronic constipation
• Addressing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Alleviating opioid-induced constipation
• Preparing for certain medical procedures, such as colonoscopies

Types of Laxatives: A Comprehensive Overview

Understanding the various types of laxatives can help individuals make informed decisions about their digestive health. Each type works differently to achieve the same goal of relieving constipation.

Lubricant Laxatives: Easing the Passage

Lubricant laxatives coat the stool and intestinal lining with a slippery substance, making it easier for waste to pass through the digestive tract. These are typically used for short-term relief or to assist those with hemorrhoids or anal fissures.

Common examples include:

• Mineral oil (taken orally)
• Glycerin suppositories (inserted rectally)

Bulk-Forming Laxatives: Adding Volume to Stools

Bulk-forming laxatives increase the bulk and water content of stools, making them softer and easier to pass. These laxatives often contain natural or synthetic fiber and are available in various forms.

Popular bulk-forming laxatives include:

• Psyllium
• Methylcellulose
• Polycarbophil

It’s crucial to drink plenty of water when using bulk-forming laxatives to prevent intestinal blockage. These may take up to three days to produce a bowel movement.

Saline Laxatives: Drawing Water into the Colon

Saline laxatives work by drawing water into the colon, softening the stool and making it easier to pass. They contain salt and other minerals that increase osmotic pressure in the gut, leading to increased water retention in the colon.

Common saline laxatives include:

• Magnesium citrate
• Magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia)
• Sodium phosphate

These laxatives typically work within a few hours and are available over the counter in various forms.

Osmotic Laxatives: Softening the Stool

Osmotic laxatives, also known as stool softeners, draw water into the colon to soften stool and facilitate its passage. They are often used for constipation caused by medication, dehydration, or lack of dietary fiber.

Examples of osmotic laxatives include:

• Magnesium citrate
• Lactulose
• Polyethylene glycol (PEG)

These laxatives come in various forms, including powders, liquids, and pills, and work by increasing the water content and volume of stool.

Stimulant Laxatives: Promoting Intestinal Contractions

Stimulant laxatives work by increasing intestinal contractions, which helps move stool through the digestive tract more quickly. These are typically used for short-term relief of constipation and are available in both oral and rectal forms.

Common stimulant laxatives include:

• Bisacodyl
• Senna
• Cascara

While effective, stimulant laxatives should be used sparingly as they can lead to dependence and decreased bowel function over time.

Managing Stomach Cramps: A Common Side Effect of Laxatives

While laxatives can provide relief from constipation, they may also cause stomach cramps and discomfort. These side effects can range from mild to severe and may require attention.

Why Do Laxatives Cause Stomach Cramps?

Stomach cramps from laxatives often occur due to the following reasons:

• Increased intestinal contractions
• Rapid changes in fluid balance within the intestines
• Irritation of the intestinal lining
• Overuse or misuse of laxatives

Strategies to Alleviate Laxative-Induced Stomach Cramps

If you’re experiencing stomach cramps after taking laxatives, consider the following strategies for relief:

1. Apply a warm compress to your abdomen
2. Practice gentle abdominal massage
3. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
4. Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation
5. Adjust your dosage or switch to a gentler laxative under medical guidance
6. Incorporate more fiber-rich foods into your diet
7. Engage in light physical activity, such as walking

Remember, if stomach cramps persist or become severe, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional.

The Risks of Long-Term Laxative Use

While laxatives can be beneficial for short-term relief, prolonged or excessive use can lead to various health issues. Understanding these risks is crucial for maintaining digestive health.

Potential Complications of Chronic Laxative Use

Long-term laxative use may result in:

• Electrolyte imbalances
• Dehydration
• Dependence and decreased natural bowel function
• Damage to the intestinal lining
• Increased risk of colon cancer (with certain types of laxatives)
• Malnutrition due to reduced nutrient absorption

How can one minimize the risks associated with laxative use? It’s essential to use laxatives as directed, avoid prolonged use without medical supervision, and explore alternative methods for maintaining regular bowel movements.

Natural Alternatives to Laxatives

For those looking to avoid potential side effects of laxatives or seeking more natural solutions, there are several alternatives to consider.

Dietary Changes for Better Digestive Health

Incorporating the following dietary changes can promote regular bowel movements:

• Increase fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
• Consume probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and kefir
• Include healthy fats in your diet, such as those found in avocados and nuts
• Limit processed foods and those high in refined sugars

Lifestyle Modifications for Improved Bowel Function

In addition to dietary changes, certain lifestyle modifications can help maintain regular bowel movements:

1. Establish a regular bathroom routine
2. Engage in regular physical activity
3. Practice stress-reduction techniques
4. Avoid holding in bowel movements
5. Consider using a squatting position on the toilet

By incorporating these natural alternatives, many individuals can improve their digestive health without relying on laxatives.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Constipation

While occasional constipation is common, persistent or severe cases may require medical attention. It’s important to recognize when to consult a healthcare professional.

Warning Signs That Warrant Medical Evaluation

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Constipation lasting more than three weeks
• Severe abdominal pain or cramping
• Blood in the stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent changes in bowel habits
• Constipation alternating with diarrhea

A healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause of chronic constipation and recommend appropriate treatment options.

The Future of Digestive Health: Emerging Treatments and Research

As our understanding of digestive health continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new treatments and approaches to managing constipation and other gastrointestinal issues.

Innovative Approaches to Digestive Health

Some promising areas of research include:

• Microbiome-based therapies
• Targeted probiotic treatments
• Novel pharmaceutical compounds with fewer side effects
• Personalized nutrition plans based on genetic profiles
• Advanced diagnostic tools for identifying underlying causes of constipation

These emerging treatments offer hope for more effective and personalized approaches to managing digestive health in the future.

In conclusion, while laxatives can be effective for short-term relief of constipation, it’s important to use them judiciously and be aware of potential side effects. By understanding the different types of laxatives, managing side effects like stomach cramps, and exploring natural alternatives, individuals can make informed decisions about their digestive health. As research continues to advance, we can look forward to more targeted and effective treatments for constipation and other gastrointestinal issues.

How To Stop Stomach Cramps From Laxatives – No More Tummy Troubles

Laxatives are often used to relieve constipation, but they can also cause stomach cramps and discomfort. If you’re experiencing stomach cramps after taking laxatives, it can be very uncomfortable and even painful. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to ease the discomfort and prevent further cramping.

In this article, we will discuss the common causes of stomach cramps from laxatives and some tips on how to relieve them. It’s important to note that severe stomach cramps may indicate a more serious issue and you should seek medical attention immediately. However, for mild to moderate cramps, the following tips can be helpful in providing relief.

Why are laxatives used?

Laxatives are medications or substances used to promote bowel movements and alleviate constipation. They work by increasing the amount of water in the stool or stimulating the muscles in the intestines to move the stool through the digestive tract.

Laxatives are commonly used to treat occasional constipation, as well as in the management of certain medical conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and opioid-induced constipation.

However, excessive or prolonged use of laxatives can lead to negative side effects such as stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhea, and dehydration. In this article, we will focus on how to alleviate stomach cramps caused by laxative use.

Types

Laxatives are a type of medication that help to stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation. They work by either increasing the amount of water in the stool, lubricating the intestinal walls, or stimulating the muscles in the intestines. Laxatives are commonly used to treat occasional constipation, but they can also be used to manage chronic constipation, certain bowel disorders, and as a preparation for medical procedures such as colonoscopies.

There are different types of laxatives, each working in a different way to relieve constipation. Some of the most common types of laxatives include:

Lubricant laxatives

Lubricant laxatives are a type of laxative that works by coating the stool and intestinal lining with a slippery substance, making it easier to pass. They are typically used for short-term relief of constipation or to help ease bowel movements in people with hemorrhoids or anal fissures.

Common lubricant laxatives include mineral oil and glycerin suppositories. Mineral oil is a liquid that is taken orally, while glycerin suppositories are inserted rectally. Both types of lubricants work by coating the stool and intestinal lining with a slick layer, which helps ease the passage of stool.

Bulk-forming laxatives

Bulk-forming laxatives are used to treat constipation by increasing the bulk and water content of stools. They work by absorbing water in the intestines, which softens the stool and makes it easier to pass.

These types of laxatives usually contain natural or synthetic fiber and are available as powders, tablets or capsules. Examples of bulk-forming laxatives include psyllium, methylcellulose and polycarbophil.

It’s important to drink plenty of water when taking bulk-forming laxatives to avoid intestinal blockage. These laxatives can take up to three days to produce a bowel movement.

Saline laxatives

Saline laxatives are types of laxatives that work by drawing water into the colon and softening the stool. They contain salt and other minerals that help increase the osmotic pressure in the gut, which in turn increases the amount of water that is retained in the colon. This makes the stool softer and easier to pass.

They work relatively quickly and can provide relief from constipation within a few hours. They are available over the counter and come in different forms, including powders, liquids, and tablets. Examples of saline laxatives include magnesium citrate, magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia), and sodium phosphate.

Osmotic laxatives

Osmotic laxatives work by drawing water into the colon to soften stool and make it easier to pass. They are also known as stool softeners and are often used for constipation caused by medication, dehydration, or a lack of fiber in the diet.

They come in several forms, including powders, liquids, and pills. Some common types of osmotic laxatives include magnesium citrate, lactulose, and polyethylene glycol (PEG).

Magnesium citrate is a saline laxative that is often used to prepare for medical procedures or surgeries. It comes in liquid form and is taken orally. Lactulose is a synthetic sugar that is also taken orally and works by increasing the water content and volume of stool. PEG is a powder that is mixed with water and taken orally. It works by drawing water into the colon and increasing the frequency of bowel movements.

Stimulant laxatives

Stimulant laxatives are another type of laxative used to relieve constipation. They work by stimulating the muscles in the intestines to contract, which helps to move stool through the digestive system.

They usually work within 6 to 12 hours after taking them, and they should not be taken for an extended period. They can cause cramping, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort, especially if taken in high doses or for an extended period.

Examples of stimulant laxatives include senna, bisacodyl, and castor oil. These laxatives are available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, suppositories, and enemas.

Suppositories

Suppositories are a type of laxative that is inserted into the rectum to help stimulate bowel movements. They come in a variety of forms, including glycerin, bisacodyl, and docusate sodium.

They work by softening stool and lubricating the rectum, making it easier for fecal matter to pass. They can provide quick relief for constipation and are often used as a last resort when other types of laxatives have not been effective.

However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully and not overuse suppositories, as they can cause irritation or damage to the rectal tissue.

Stool softener

Stool softeners, also known as emollient laxatives, work by making the stool softer and easier to pass. They are commonly used to treat constipation or to prevent straining during bowel movements, which can lead to hemorrhoids or anal fissures.

They function by drawing water into the colon and softening the stool, making it easier to pass without causing any additional strain or discomfort. They are typically taken orally in pill or liquid form and can take anywhere from 12 to 72 hours to produce a bowel movement.

While using over-the-counter laxatives often might result in electrolyte disturbances and changes in the body’s salt and mineral balance, they can also be highly beneficial in treating constipation. Try using some natural laxatives in your regimen if you want to establish regularity. In addition to having few adverse effects, they can be affordable, safe alternatives to over-the-counter medications.

Coffee

Some people may feel the need to use the restroom more frequently when they drink coffee. Coffee typically contains caffeine, which may hasten the rate at which food moves through your digestive tract.

Sugar substitute

Overuse of some sugar substitutes might have a laxative impact. This is due to the fact that they mostly travel through the stomach unabsorbed, pulling water into the intestines and accelerating gut transit. For sugar alcohols, which are poorly absorbed in the digestive system, this mechanism is particularly true. It has been researched if lactitol, a form of sugar alcohol made from milk sugar, may be used to treat persistent constipation.

Water

You need to drink plenty of water to stay well hydrated, maintain regularity, and prevent constipation. According to research, keeping hydrated reduces constipation by improving stoma consistency and making feces easier to pass. It may also enhance the effects of other organic laxatives like fiber. Drinking adequate water daily is essential for overall health.

Chia seeds

They are a particularly good source of fiber. Fibre is one of the first lines of defense against constipation. It doesn’t get digested as it moves through the digestive system, giving feces more volume and encouraging regularity. Increased fiber consumption may encourage more frequent bowel movements and soften stools for simpler passage, according to studies.

Which laxative is suitable for you, then?

It might be challenging to predict which laxative would be the best one for you. It really depends on the individual. The NHS advises starting with a bulk-forming laxative unless there is a specific reason why one type of laxative may be more beneficial for you than another. Use an osmotic laxative instead of, or in addition to, a bulk-forming laxative if your faeces continue to be hard, and consider using a stimulant laxative in addition to a bulk-forming laxative if your poop is soft but still difficult to pass. However, if you’re unclear about which laxative to take, it is important to see a doctor or pharmacist.

Side effects

One of the most common side effects of laxatives is abdominal pain or cramping. This occurs because laxatives stimulate the muscles in the intestines to contract, which can cause discomfort. In addition, laxatives can also lead to diarrhea, which can further exacerbate abdominal pain and cramping. This can be particularly problematic for individuals with pre-existing digestive issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Dehydration is another potential side effect of laxatives, particularly those that promote water loss, such as osmotic laxatives. When excessive water is lost from the body, it can lead to symptoms such as thirst, dry mouth, and decreased urine output. Severe dehydration can be life-threatening, especially in vulnerable populations such as the elderly.

Laxatives can also interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients in the body, particularly fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin D, E, and K. This can lead to deficiencies in these vitamins, which can result in various health problems. Furthermore, long-term use of laxatives can also lead to damage to the intestinal lining, which can impact the absorption of nutrients from food.

Other potential side effects of laxatives include bloating, flatulence, nausea, and vomiting. In some cases, laxatives can also cause allergic reactions, such as hives or swelling of the face and throat, which can be life-threatening in severe cases.

In addition to these physical side effects, laxative abuse can also lead to psychological issues such as laxative dependency and body dysmorphia. Individuals who struggle with eating disorders or body image issues are particularly vulnerable to the abuse of laxatives.

Laxatives and eating disorders

Laxative abuse is a common behavior among people with eating disorders. In fact, it is estimated that up to 40% of people with eating disorders use laxatives as a way to control their weight. This is especially true for those with bulimia nervosa, where the use of laxatives is a symptom of the disorder.

Laxative abuse can be very harmful and even life-threatening. It can cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and damage to the digestive system. Furthermore, it can create a cycle of dependency where the person needs to use more and more laxatives to achieve the desired effect.

For those with eating disorders, the use of laxatives is often seen as a way to compensate for binge eating or to prevent weight gain. However, this is a dangerous misconception. Laxatives do not prevent calorie absorption, and the weight loss that results from their use is mostly due to water loss.

If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder and is using laxatives, it is important to seek professional help. A qualified healthcare provider can help address the underlying issues driving the behavior and provide appropriate treatment to manage the disorder.

Easing Stomach Cramps

Over-the-counter medications

• Paracetamol: Paracetamol is a common painkiller used to treat aches and pains. Numerous other antiviral drugs also contain it. It could be applied in this situation to alleviate stomach discomfort brought on by laxatives.
• Codeine – Codeine is an opiate, which is a group of medications used to treat pain. Abdominal pain can be treated with it. Codeine is typically the next step when over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol, ibuprofen, and aspirin have failed to ease the agony. Codeine can also be used to treat diarrhea. It has an effect on the brain and central nervous system to prevent pain signals from traveling to other parts of the body. It also decreases the stress and concern that come with being in pain.

Codeine is an over-the-counter medication that comes in pill, liquid, and injection forms. Codeine injections are typically only given in medical facilities. Additionally, less potent versions of codeine are sold in pharmacies. It is given along with ibuprofen, aspirin, or paracetamol.

Home remedies

There are methods for relieving stomach cramps quickly or at home. Others deal with the underlying causes of muscular spasms, while some at-home therapies relax the stomach muscles to stop spasms. If you are pregnant, talk to your doctor about your stomach cramps before using any home remedies. Use of several home remedies during pregnancy may not be advised.

• Heat – As a temporary solution, place a heating pad on your stomach. The heat will cause your outer stomach muscles to relax, which will aid with digestion. Most of the time, lying down is the most effective. For at least 15 minutes, leave it there.
• Rest – A recent study found that sleep deprivation is closely associated to digestive issues.A restful night’s sleep improves your body’s performance and can ease any stomach discomfort you might be experiencing.
• Chamomile tea – Recognized as one of the most relaxing tea varieties since it is flavorful and light. It’s widely used to treat symptoms including bloating, indigestion, motion sickness, nausea, and diarrhea as well as to relax the muscles in your digestive tract.
• Electrolytes – Your digestive system’s muscles need to contract properly for you to use the restroom. So either high or low electrolyte levels can result in diarrhea, constipation, and cramping. Because regular use of laxatives can lead to electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, and mineral deficiencies, it is imperative to maintain proper electrolyte levels.
• Antacids – Antacids level out the acid in your stomach to cure indigestion and heartburn. They can quickly help your symptoms go gone in a matter of hours. They do not, however, address the underlying cause, and continued usage is not suggested.

FAQ

Can laxatives cause dehydration?

Yes, certain types of laxatives, such as osmotic and saline laxatives, can cause dehydration by drawing water from the body into the intestines to soften stool.

Can you overdose on them?

Yes, it is possible to overdose on laxatives. Overuse or misuse of laxatives can lead to serious health complications such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and damage to the digestive system.

Can laxatives affect birth control?

Some types of laxatives, such as osmotic laxatives, may affect the absorption of birth control pills. It is recommended to use a backup method of contraception while using laxatives.

Can cause stomach cramps?

Yes, some types of laxatives, such as stimulant laxatives, can cause stomach cramps and discomfort.

Can they cause rectal bleeding?

Yes, overuse or misuse of laxatives can cause rectal bleeding, especially with the use of suppositories or enemas.

Can laxatives cause weight loss?

While some people may experience temporary weight loss due to the elimination of stool, the use of laxatives for weight loss purposes is not recommended and can be dangerous.

Can they be used for long-term treatment of constipation?

Long-term use of laxatives is not recommended as it can lead to dependence and damage to the digestive system. It is important to address the underlying causes of constipation through lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments.

Can natural laxatives be just as effective as over-the-counter laxatives?

Yes, some natural laxatives such as prunes, psyllium husk, and magnesium citrate can be just as effective as over-the-counter laxatives for treating constipation. However, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or medication.

Conclusion

The use of laxatives to treat constipation and encourage regular bowel movements may have a major negative influence on the health of your digestive system. The four main types of laxatives are bulk-forming laxatives, osmotic laxatives, stimulant laxatives, and stool-softening laxatives.

Depending on the laxative you’re taking, you can suffer different side effects, but the majority of laxatives have common adverse effects include bloating, flatulence, stomach cramps, feeling sick, and dehydration, which can result in headaches and lightheadedness.

Laxative use can cause stomach discomfort, which can be relieved by over-the-counter medications such paracetamol and codeine. Natural remedies might also help to lessen discomfort. Consider using a heated pad because the heat will calm the muscles in your outer tummy.

Common Side Effects of Laxatives

Constipation and laxatives

The parameters for constipation vary from person to person.

Generally, if you have difficulty emptying your bowels and have fewer than three bowel movements a week, you likely have constipation.

If these infrequent bowel movements and difficulty passing stools continues for several weeks or longer, you’re considered to have chronic constipation.

A laxative is a medicine that stimulates or facilitates bowel movements. There are different types of laxatives available that don’t require a prescription.

Even though these laxatives are readily available at your drug store or online, you should talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your needs and which type may be the best one for you.

There are five primary types of over-the-counter (OTC) laxatives:

Oral osmotics

Taken orally, osmotics help make the passage of stool easier by drawing water into the colon. Popular brands of osmotics include:

• MiraLAX
• Phillips’ Milk of Magnesia

Oral bulk formers

Taken orally, bulk formers prompt normal intestinal muscle contraction by absorbing water to form a soft, bulky stool. Popular brands of bulk formers include:

• Benefiber
• Citrucel
• FiberCon
• Metamucil

Oral stool softeners

Taken orally, stool softeners work like the name implies — they make hard stools softer and easier to pass with less strain. Popular brands of stool softeners include:

• Colace
• Surfak

Oral stimulants

Taken orally, stimulants encourage bowel movements by triggering rhythmic contractions of the intestinal muscles. Popular brands of stimulants include:

• Dulcolax
• Senokot

Rectal suppositories

Taken rectally, these suppositories soften stool and trigger rhythmic contractions of the intestinal muscles. Popular brands of suppositories include:

• Dulcolax
• Pedia-Lax

Following are the common potential side effects of the five primary types of OTC laxatives.

Oral osmotics

Possible side effects include:

• bloating
• gas
• cramping
• diarrhea
• thirst
• nausea

Oral bulk-formers

Possible side effects include:

• bloating
• gas
• cramping
• increased constipation (if not taken with enough water)

Oral stool softeners

Possible side effects include:

• loose stools

Oral stimulants

Possible side effects include:

• burping
• cramping
• urine discoloration
• nausea
• diarrhea

Rectal suppositories

Possible side effects include:

• cramping
• diarrhea
• rectal irritation

As with any OTC medication, read the laxative label carefully and talk with your doctor or pharmacist to see if it’s a viable choice for you and your current state of health.

Just because laxatives are available OTC doesn’t mean that they’re without risks. If you’re considering using laxatives, understand that risks can include:

Interaction with other medications

Among other medications, laxatives can interact with certain heart medications, antibiotics, and bone medications.

This information is often on the label. But to be safe, ask your doctor or pharmacist about the laxative you’re considering and how it might interact with the other medications you’ve been prescribed.

Complications

If your constipation is caused by another condition — such as diverticulosis — frequent or long-term laxative use can worsen constipation by decreasing your colon’s ability to contract.

The exception is bulk-forming laxatives. These are safe to take every day.

Dehydration

If laxative use results in diarrhea, your body can become dehydrated. Diarrhea can also lead to electrolyte imbalance.

Breastfeeding

If you’re breastfeeding, some ingredients can pass to your baby through your breast milk, possibly causing diarrhea or other problems. Talk with your doctor before using any laxative.

Dependency

Overuse of laxatives (other than bulk formers) can result in the intestines losing muscle and nerve response, which can lead to dependency on laxatives to have a bowel movement.

If you find yourself in this situation, your doctor should have suggestions on how to remedy laxative dependency and restore your colon’s ability to contract.

When you have constipation and are using laxatives, make an appointment to see your doctor if you experience unexplained changes in bowel pattern or constipation lasting longer than seven days (even with using a laxative).

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

• rectal bleeding
• bloody stools
• severe cramps or pain
• weakness or unusual tiredness
• dizziness
• confusion
• skin rash or itching
• swallowing difficulty (feeling of lump in throat)
• irregular heartbeat

If you don’t get constipated, you won’t need laxatives.

To help treat constipation and avoid it in the future, consider making these dietary and lifestyle changes:

• Adjust your diet so you’re eating more high-fiber food, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, whole-grain cereals, and bran.
• Reduce your consumption of low-fiber foods, such as processed foods and dairy products.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Get regular exercise.
• Manage stress.
• When you feel the urge to pass stool, don’t ignore it.
• Create a regular schedule for bowel movements, such as after meals.

For the treatment of occasional constipation, you have a choice of a number of safe, effective OTC laxatives. If you decide to use one, read the label directions carefully and only use it as directed.

Talk with your doctor or pharmacist to help choose a laxative that won’t interact with other medications you’re taking or otherwise put you at risk.

If you have chronic constipation, see your doctor. They can tailor a plan of medication, diet, and lifestyle changes to help you treat and avoid future problems with bowel movements.

Long-term use of laxatives damages the brain. What to do

2 More photos

(Photo: shutterstock)

Constipation is a common disorder among people in developed countries, and many of them take laxatives. These drugs are known to be addictive. But there is another danger: according to a study published in the journal Neurology, chronic use of laxatives increases the risk of dementia. This is written on Wednesday, March 1, by the Ynet website.

An estimated 70% of nursing home residents suffer from constipation. Most of them take over-the-counter laxatives. Some of these drugs increase the peristalsis of the large intestine, others soften the feces (osmotic), which makes it easier to defecate.

A new study conducted at a hospital in the Chinese city of Shenzhen was based on the study of data on 476,219 people aged 40-69 years. First, their lifestyle and health status were studied, and then – the use of over-the-counter laxatives. 3.6% of the subjects took laxatives on most days of the week. Most of the subjects were women with a low level of education, suffering from chronic diseases and constantly taking medication in connection with this.

Scientists found that 2187 people had some form of dementia – Alzheimer’s disease or cognitive impairment caused by blockage of cerebral vessels. Chronic use of laxatives increased the risk of both types of dementia, especially in those taking multiple types of laxatives.

Dementia was diagnosed in 1.3% of people who regularly took laxatives and 0.4% of those who did not. That is, these drugs increased the risk by more than 3 times.

According to scientists, osmotic laxatives have a long-term effect on the intestinal microbiome (a collection of intestinal microbes), which affect the production of substances necessary for the normal functioning of the brain. Osmotic laxatives also damaged the intestinal epithelial barrier, increasing the production of toxins, which interfered with the absorption of nutrients that the central nervous system needs.

Despite the scope of the study, not everyone agrees with the conclusions of Chinese scientists. Dr. Richard Isaacson, a neuroscientist at the Florida Institute of Degenerative Diseases, said the findings are speculative. “More research is needed to make definitive decisions about the use of laxatives in clinical practice,” he told CNN.

“Constipation is also common in Israel,” says Dr. Yosef Lisi, a gastroenterologist at the Shaare Zedek hospital in Jerusalem. “But we Israeli doctors recommend drinking more in these cases, eating vegetables and fruits along with the peel,

We do not deny the use of over-the-counter laxatives – stool softeners, stool softeners, and glycerin suppositories.0003

However, chronic use of laxatives is addictive and can lead to dehydration. Therefore, the treatment of constipation should be under the supervision of a doctor and, if necessary, include prescription drugs. “

►Dementia: from forgetfulness to complete dysfunction orientation, communication difficulties, in severe cases causes complete dysfunction. The most common types are Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.

2 More photos

(Photo: shutterstock)

An estimated 120,000 Israelis suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. It is characterized by the gradual destruction of brain cells, which leads to a decrease in intelligence, memory, attention, learning and speech skills, as a result, a person ceases to be independent.

The diagnosis is made by a neurologist at the memory clinic (mirpaat-zikaron). A complete examination is performed, including a study of the medical history, a complete identification of symptoms, an assessment of intelligence and functionality, and additional methods are applied (radiography, blood tests). The doctor evaluates the degree of memory impairment and the patient’s ability to perform daily activities and make decisions.

The patient becomes dependent on others, asks them to make choices for him, repeats the same questions, loses interest in hobbies that previously gave him pleasure.

At the first stage of the disease, patients and their relatives report a deterioration in short-term memory, people forget about appointments and events, repeat the same phrases and questions, become absent-minded, have difficulty remembering the names of acquaintances and places, then there are difficulties in speech and depletion of vocabulary. Mood worsens, there is a tendency to melancholy and depression, anxiety, a change in personality and a deterioration in social skills.

At the second stage, lasting 2-8 years, the patient hardly recognizes friends and relatives. He cannot remember how to complete daily activities such as showering and brushing his teeth, the mind becomes confused, anxiety increases, hallucinations and insomnia occur. As the intellect decreases, the patient loses interest in what surrounds him and becomes apathetic.

At the third stage, lasting 1-3 years, all brain functions (thinking, communication, movement control) are disturbed. The patient does not recognize anyone, finds it difficult to eat, does not understand the meaning of words, cannot dress and wash independently, and does not control urination and defecation. Suspicion, empty thoughts and hallucinations also appear at this stage.

Drug addiction: how to get rid of it

Is Guttalax addictive in humans

When is Guttalax® prescribed?

For constipation of various origins ¹ . By the way, constipation is one of the most common problems that occurs in 30-50% of the adult population and in 5-20%
children ² .

Before prescribing a laxative, the doctor needs to establish the cause of the constipation: if it is the result of another pathology, then the underlying disease must also be treated. However, in any case, if constipation occurs, the patient will be advised to adjust their usual lifestyle: change the diet by adding more foods rich in plant fiber, fruits and vegetables to the diet, increase fluid intake and increase physical activity.
activity ² .

If there are indications and no contraindications, the doctor may prescribe a laxative, for example, Guttalax®.

Types of constipation

• primary
• secondary
• sharp
• chronic

If there are indications and no contraindications, the doctor may prescribe a laxative, for example, Guttalax®.

How Guttalax® works

This drug belongs to the stimulant laxatives – the most popular group of such drugs ² . Guttalax (whose active substance is sodium picosulfate) has a dual mechanism of action ^1.2 :

Helps reduce intestinal fluid absorption, which leads to water accumulation and softening of the stool ^1.2 .

Helps to stimulate intestinal motility, thereby accelerating the passage of feces ^1.2 .

When taken orally, the drug in almost unchanged form is in the large intestine, where with the help of bacteria it is converted into an active form with a laxative effect ^{1. 2} . The laxative effect of Guttalax occurs 6-12 hours after taking ¹ .

Is Guttalax® addictive?

No! Guttalax® is not addictive
¹ .

In addition, the treatment of chronic constipation with sodium picosulfate has been shown to improve patients
bowel function and overall quality of life ³ .

So why do so many people believe in laxative addiction?

The notion that laxatives are addictive may be due to various factors. For example, a misconception about normal bowel function or an obsessive desire to “cleanse” water and toxins can drive a person to use laxatives over and over again, overusing them even when there is no real need ⁴ .