Laxatives and Stool Softeners for Constipation
Another option is laxatives and stool softeners. These are common over-the-counter (OTC) solutions that will increase the water amount in the colon and allow stool to pass. The main difference between laxatives and stool softeners is that laxatives stimulate a bowel movement while stool softeners are a type of emollient laxative that affects the stool composition.
Laxatives are usually prescribed by doctors to help with constipation and come in many forms, including capsules, pills, liquids, and enemas.
Other kinds of laxatives include:
• Bulking Agents or Fiber: Fiber is highly important for healthy digestion and will combat gas and bloat. If you cannot get enough fiber, you can use OTC remedies like Fiber-Lax, Metamucil, and Benefiber. This is the most natural kind of laxative. However, you should be aware that fiber will also reduce the absorption of some prescription medications. Always take medications at least two hours before consuming fiber supplements.
• Stool Softeners (Emollient Laxatives): These kinds of laxatives contain docusate, which softens and wets stool. Emollient laxatives usually take about a week to work. Most stool softeners can be taken orally or used as a rectal enema. The latter will work more quickly.
• Lubricant Laxatives: Using mineral oil, lubricant laxatives will line the walls of the intestines and anus to prevent stool from drying out. Though very effective, lubricant laxatives can only be used for a short period. If used for a long duration, the mineral oil will prevent proper absorption of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients.
Two other methods that may be prescribed by a doctor include osmotic laxatives like oral magnesium hydroxide and polyethylene glycol, which increase water in the intestines to soften stool, and stimulant cathartics, a drug that provokes muscle contractions within the digestive tract. Prostaglandins and prokinetic medications may be paired with laxatives or stool softeners to assist with increasing movement of the stool by changing the way the gastrointestinal tract absorbs electrolytes from fluids.
If you are given an enema or suppository, make sure you are comfortable with this. There is a high risk of damaging the rectum further if the enema or suppository is not inserted correctly.
