Laxatives are commonly used to treat difficult bowel movements or constipation. There are different types of laxatives with different ways of working. Whatever the type, this drug needs to be taken with caution to avoid side effects.
Complaints of difficult bowel movements can generally be overcome by eating fiber-rich foods, meeting the body's fluid needs, and exercising regularly.
However, if all these methods have been done and constipation does not improve, the consumption of laxatives can be the solution.
Types of Laxatives
There are various types of laxatives with different ingredients and ways of working in dealing with constipation. Its effectiveness can vary from person to person.
The following are some of the most commonly used types of laxatives:
1. Osmotic laxatives
Osmotic laxatives work by stimulating the body to increase the amount of fluid in the intestines, making stools softer and easier to expel from the body. It can take 2-3 days for this medicine to treat constipation.
When using this type of laxative, you are advised to drink plenty of water so that the medicine works properly and reduces the risk of flatulence, cramps, and dehydration.
2. Laxatives in the form of fiber
Laxatives in the form of fiber work by increasing the absorption of water in the digestive tract and compacting the texture of feces. Thus, feces can be removed easily within 2-3 days.
Just like osmotic laxatives, you are also advised to drink plenty of water while taking this type of laxative to reduce the risk of dehydration, bloating, and abdominal pain.
3. Stimulant laxatives
Stimulant laxatives work by stimulating muscle movement in the digestive tract to push stool out within 6–12 hours. This drug is used for conditions that are classified as severe constipation and when other types of laxatives are not able to overcome it.
4. Lubricant laxatives
Lubricant laxatives contain mineral oil that lubricates the intestinal walls. Thus, feces can pass through the intestines and be expelled more easily.
Lubricant laxatives should only be used for a short period of time because they can block the absorption of vitamins and some medications.
5. Stool softener
These laxatives work by increasing the absorption of water into the stool, so the stool becomes softer and easier to pass. This drug works within 7 days or more and is suitable for use by people with hemorrhoids or people recovering from surgery, including mothers who have just given birth.
Guide to Taking Laxatives
When taking laxatives, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Time to take laxatives
Laxatives should not be taken carelessly and should be taken at certain times, such as when you wake up in the morning or before going to bed at night.
Laxative Dosage
Taking laxatives too often or in higher doses than recommended can lead to diarrhea, an imbalance in mineral and salt levels in the body, and a buildup or blockage of feces in the intestines.
Laxative side effects
Pay attention to the possible side effects that can result from taking or using laxatives. The side effects of each laxative can vary, depending on the type of drug used.
Long use of laxatives
Laxatives should not be used continuously. Immediately discontinue use if complaints of constipation have improved or healed.
Long-term use of laxatives carries the risk of causing electrolyte imbalances that regulate a number of body functions. This condition can cause weakness, confusion, seizures, and an abnormal heartbeat.
Drug interactions
Avoid using several types of laxatives at the same time. In addition to increasing the risk of side effects, taking more than one type of laxative can also cause dangerous drug interactions.
Also, avoid taking laxatives along with certain types of antibiotics or opioid pain relievers, such as morphine or codeine.
Laxatives Are Not Suitable For Everyone
Consult your doctor first before using any type of laxative, especially if you suffer from the following conditions:
- Bowel disorders, such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome (irritable bowel syndrome)
- History of kidney and liver disorders
- Difficult to swallow
- Diabetes
- Lactose intolerance
- Genetic disorders such as phenylketonuria
The doctor will prescribe the type of laxative according to your condition.
Use of Laxatives in Babies, Pregnant Women, and Breastfeeding Mothers
Not only sufferers of certain health problems, infants, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers are also advised to consult a doctor before using laxatives. Here is the explanation:
Pregnant mother
Laxatives in the form of fiber and stool softeners are generally safe to use by pregnant women. However, stimulant laxatives are best avoided.
Breastfeeding mothers
Laxatives are considered safe for use by nursing mothers. However, some laxatives can be absorbed by the body and passed through breast milk. This can cause diarrhea in babies. So, you should always consult a doctor before taking laxatives in nursing mothers.
Baby
Laxatives should not be given to babies who are still breastfeeding or who are less than 6 months old. Constipation in infants and toddlers can be treated in the following ways:
- Breastfeeding, if it occurs in infants who have not consumed solid food
- Give more breast milk, mineral water, or fruit that contains a lot of water, if it occurs in babies who have started solids
- Gently massage the baby's belly and move his legs like he is pedaling a bicycle
If your little one is still having difficulty defecating after you have done the various methods above, immediately consult a doctor to get the appropriate treatment.
If your constipation does not improve after more than 5 days or certain symptoms appear after taking laxatives, such as dizziness, weakness, stomach cramps, or blood in the stool, you should immediately consult a doctor.
