Laxatives can be used to treat and relieve the feeling of constipation as well as helping to loosen stools, making bowel movement more frequent and easier to pass.

Types of laxative

There are 4 main types of laxatives which can help to increase stool movement and make it easier to go. These are bulk laxatives, stimulant laxatives, osmotic laxatives, and stool softeners. Stimulant laxative, osmotic laxatives and stool softeners are the most common types of laxative you can buy over the counter.

Stimulant laxatives stimulates the bowels to increase stool movement and decrease the time in which it takes to pass them. They do this by stimulating muscles to contract in waves pushing the stools out. Many people find these an effective form of constipation relief, however they can sometimes take 6-12 hours to work. Examles include Dulcolax tablets or Senokot (Senna) tablets.

Osmotic laxatives, also known as saline laxatives or magnesium citrate, work by increasing the volume of non-absorbable molecules in the colon, causing water to diffuse into the colon by osmosis, thus increasing the water content,  as well as through lubrication, making stools softer to pass. Dulcosoft or over the counter as Lactulose are good examples.

Stool softeners work in a very similar way to osmotic laxatives, increasing the water content of your stools, making passing them much easier and less painful. You can shop Dulcosoft and Fybogel online or instore.