Strong, fast-acting laxatives. What safe laxatives are there?

People who often have difficulty defecating know how painful and unpleasant it is. This article will talk about the most effective and natural laxatives for constipation. Despite the fact that today you can buy any pills in pharmacies, many people still prefer to be treated using only natural, proven remedies that will bring benefits and will not cause any harm to the body.

We will introduce you to excellent traditional medicine recipes, tell you how to do self-massage, which has a positive effect on intestinal motility, teach you how to use rectal suppositories, etc. But before we start talking in detail about medications for constipation, let's look at the reasons why they occur.

What causes constipation

This is a rather complex topic, because there are many factors that influence the occurrence of difficulties with bowel movements. Still, finding the reason is extremely important! This will make it much easier to choose effective laxatives for constipation. Reviews about certain recipes or medications can be both positive and negative. Those. What works great for some people is often completely useless for others. Often such a difference of opinion is caused by an incorrectly identified cause that provoked a malfunction in the body. Here are a number of negative factors that contribute to constipation:

Insufficient amount of fiber in the diet.

Insufficient intake of water into the body.

Taking certain medications that may cause constipation as a side effect.

Lack of movement during the day.

Stress.

Diseases of the endocrine system.

A special category is the elderly. Their bowel problems can be caused by weakening of the abdominal muscles. And the following information will be of interest to those who are looking for natural laxatives for children. When babies have constipation, parents sometimes lose their heads and simply don’t know what to do. Meanwhile, in order to get rid of the problem, it is often enough for the child’s mother to reconsider her diet. In infants who are bottle-fed or mixed-fed, difficulties with bowel movements may arise from switching to another milk formula, as well as due to a lack of fluid entering the body.

Traditional treatment for constipation

Laxatives for constipation are very important. We can divide such medicinal drugs into several types:

1. Medicines that can irritate the receptors of the intestinal mucosa. They often add various medicinal plants, castor oil, as well as some synthetic substances (phenolphthalein, isafenin, etc.).

2. Frequent constipation is well treated with drugs that soften stool in the intestines. These products include various oils (olive, Vaseline, almond, castor and even regular sunflower).

3. To help adults suffering from delayed bowel movements, medications are often used to help enlarge the intestinal cavity, on the one hand, and, on the other, to liquefy its contents. These properties are found in seaweed, magnesium sulfate, and salt supplied from the Czech Republic.

Laxatives for constipation, used regularly and uncontrollably, can be harmful. Here are a number of side effects:

Getting used to laxatives. Gradually, the body refuses to respond to the drug, which leads to a constant increase in dosage.
Constant use of strong laxatives can lead to dehydration and removal of important salts and trace elements from the body.
Intestinal tissue can change under the influence of powerful drugs, which can subsequently trigger the occurrence of a tumor process.

Natural laxative products

Laxatives for constipation - natural, harmless and ensuring regular, problem-free bowel movements - are always preferable to chemical medications. Fortunately, there are many foods that can help relieve constipation. Here is their list:

Fruits: plums, apples, tangerines, peaches and grapes.

Dried fruits: figs, prunes, dried apricots.

Vegetables: zucchini, beets, onions, carrots, cabbage (cauliflower or Brussels sprouts).

Legumes.

Grain bread.

Dairy products.

Pickled white cabbage.

Vegetable oil.

Natural laxatives from the pharmacy

Pharmacies sell many plant-based laxatives. They are very convenient to use, as they allow you to avoid the tedious process of preparing your own medicine at home. All you need to do is follow the instructions exactly. These laxatives include such best remedies for constipation as:

- "Kafiol" - contains senna fruits and leaves, figs, plums and vaseline oil.

- "Mukofalk." The basis of this medicine is plantain seeds.

- "Laminarid" is a preparation made from seaweed.

- "Senade" - based on senna.

- "Musinum" - this drug contains: anise, buckthorn bark, senna powder and boldo leaves.

- "Agiolax" - it successfully combines plantain seeds and senna powder.

Suppositories "Rectactive" are made on the basis of horse chestnut.

The most modern treatment for constipation is Exportal. Lactitol in its composition allows you to stimulate the restoration of normal intestinal microflora, serving as a nutrient medium for it. Also, when “eating” it, bacteria release extremely useful organic acids, of which the most beneficial for intestinal health is butyric acid. Exportal acts delicately and provides treatment for constipation with benefits for the intestines, providing a laxative effect and serving as a prevention of further problems with bowel movement.

This list is far from complete. The pharmacy assortment is constantly updated with new natural laxatives.

How to relieve constipation in a small child

First of all, I would like to say that it is best to entrust the choice of laxatives for constipation in children to a doctor. After all, a child’s body is much more tender and vulnerable than that of adults. Here we can give only a few recommendations that cannot do any harm. If the baby hasn’t really gone to the toilet once all day, then he can be helped with a microenema. To do this, you need to purchase the smallest rubber bulb-syringe at the pharmacy.

The contents of the enema are saline or soap solution. To prepare it, take warm boiled water (10-15 ml) and dissolve a small piece of soap (for children) or a pinch of salt in it. The tip of the syringe is lubricated with Vaseline or baby cream and carefully inserted into the baby's anus (not deep), the contents of the enema are released into the rectum slowly. Usually one such procedure is enough to empty the intestines. If the baby does not feel better, he needs to be shown to a specialist.

If constipation is observed in a small child who has already been introduced to complementary foods, then you can add a little prunes to the diet - this is an excellent natural product that has a mild laxative effect.

Treatment of constipation in older people

In old age, people often begin to experience difficulty defecating. Natural laxatives for constipation in the elderly are, first of all, properly selected foods that can regulate intestinal activity. It is useful for older people to eat fresh yogurt or biokefir every day, as well as dishes that contain an abundance of fiber (mashed beets and carrots, vinaigrette, bran, etc.).

In the morning on an empty stomach, it is useful to drink half a glass of water at room temperature, and immediately before breakfast eat one tablespoon of sunflower oil. Here is a well-proven recipe for a natural laxative: dried apricots, prunes (400 g each, etc.) and figs (300 g) need to be minced in a meat grinder, gradually adding senna (1 pack). Add 100 g of honey and a little lemon juice to the resulting mixture. This laxative is taken in the morning on an empty stomach, one tbsp. spoon (maybe a little more or less) and wash it down with half a glass of regular cold water.

Rectal suppositories

What other laxatives can be used for constipation? Suppositories, which can be bought in our pharmacies, are considered one of the safest and most effective drugs. True, it is not recommended to use them too often, because... constant strong irritation of the colon receptors entails a weakening of their sensitivity, as a result of which the suppositories cease to have the desired effect.

Suppositories should be inserted into the rectum in the morning, about fifteen minutes after breakfast. Before doing this, be sure to familiarize yourself with all the contraindications that are set out in the instructions included with the drug. If you urgently need to get rid of constipation, try purchasing Bisacodyl (inexpensive domestic suppositories), Dulcolax or glycerin suppositories at the pharmacy.

Laxative folk remedies for constipation: herbal recipes

Traditional medicine suggests treating constipation with herbal infusions. Here are some effective recipes:

1. You need to chop and mix 50 g of joster fruits and black elderberry flowers. Next one art. Brew a spoonful of the mixture with boiling water (1 cup) and put the broth on low heat for 5 minutes. The cooled and filtered drug should be drunk in the morning (on an empty stomach) and in the evening (before bed) one glass at a time.

2. To prepare the next decoction you need anise and fennel fruits (10 g each), buckthorn fruits (60 g) and licorice root (20 g). The herbal mixture is crushed and mixed. Next one art. a spoonful of mixed herbs is poured with boiling water and placed on the stove, as in the previous recipe. Take half a glass in the morning and evening. This decoction is very effective in helping with constipation in pregnant women.

3. Buckthorn bark, holly cassia leaves, joster leaves (30 g each), licorice root and anise fruit (10 g each) are crushed and mixed together. Brew one tablespoon of the collection with a glass of boiling water, cover the dish with a lid and leave the broth to infuse. You need to drink half a glass of this medicine before going to bed at night.

What else can you do at home?

Laxative folk remedies for constipation are not limited to herbs. The following tips will help you in trouble:

You can try to make excellent medicine from ordinary potatoes. To do this, peeled tubers are grated and the juice is squeezed out of the resulting pulp. You need to drink a quarter glass every day.

Sauerkraut brine helps relieve constipation. It should be drunk warm, half a glass daily. By the way, sauerkraut itself also has a pronounced laxative effect.

In the morning, while your stomach is empty, you can drink honey water. It is prepared simply: honey (1 tablespoon) is dissolved in a glass of water at room temperature.

Self-massage

People who are prone to constipation are recommended to do a simple daily abdominal massage. Nothing special, you just need to lie down, relax and massage your stomach with stroking circular movements around your navel in a clockwise direction. Why this way and not the other way? The fact is that food moves in the intestines clockwise. If you massage against this movement, you risk either diarrhea or even more severe constipation.

Normalization of intestinal microflora

Now you know many effective remedies for constipation. Now let's see what can be done to prevent these painful conditions. Let's talk about normalizing the intestinal microflora. For normal functioning of the intestines, it must contain 90% beneficial bacteria and only 10% putrefactive bacteria. With frequent constipation, this ratio is disrupted and putrefactive microorganisms begin to predominate.

To correct the situation, you need to “seed” the intestines with beneficial bacteria. This can be done by regularly eating yoghurts containing healthy live cultures, acidophilus milk, and kefir. To normalize the microflora, the doctor may prescribe drugs such as Colibacterin, Bifikol, Baktisubtil and other drugs.

Conclusion

If you notice that you need stronger and stronger laxatives for constipation, which is happening more and more often, then this should be a reason to visit your doctor. Perhaps you have some serious illness that needs urgent treatment. Don't delay your visit to the doctor!

How to choose tablets to treat constipation when the market offers such a wide choice?

When choosing a medicine, each of us wants to get a safe and effective remedy.

At the same time, no one wants to overpay for much-needed medications.

We will talk about the most effective and inexpensive drugs for cleansing the intestines in this article.

How to choose a laxative?

When choosing tablets, you need to determine which class is required, take into account side effects and contraindications:

it is important to find out the active ingredients and study the annotation;
for chronic constipation, it is better to choose prebiotics to restore microflora and stimulate intestinal function.

What drugs are there to cleanse the intestines and how do they work?

Tablets for relieving constipation have different spectrums of effects. First you need to find out the cause of constipation, and then choose a drug:

Watch a video about choosing a laxative:

Effective and inexpensive fast-acting tablets

Dulcolax

This laxative medication contains bisacodyl, a derivative of diphenylmethane.. Activates peristalsis, causing an increase in the volume of electrolytes and fluid. Helps ease defecation by softening and increasing the volume of feces and normalizing intestinal motility.

The desired effect is achieved after 6-12 hours.

Available in the form of tablets with a coating that dissolves in the intestines. The tablets are taken orally and must be taken with large volumes of liquid.:

children over 10 years old and adults take 1-2 tablets;
at the age of 4-10 years – 1 tablet.

ADVICE: Do not take Dulcolax with food, which causes a decrease in the acidity level of the upper gastrointestinal tract.

Common side effects are:

diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting and nausea, colitis;
fainting, dizziness;
excessive sensitivity, angioedema.

Contraindications include:

bisacodyl intolerance;
obstruction in the intestines;
obstructive conditions;
exacerbation of pathologies;
acute inflammation;
dehydration;
stomach ache;
age up to 4 years.

Among the advantages, it is worth highlighting a fairly fast action, and can be used by children from 4 years of age.

The disadvantages include a large number of contraindications and addiction after long-term use.

The average cost in Russian pharmacies is 230 rubles per pack of 30 tablets.

Bisacodyl

The medicine has a laxative effect. The principle of function is determined by an increase in the production of mucus in the intestines, an increase and acceleration of its work.

Stimulates nerve endings in the mucous membrane. Effective 6-8 hours after administration.

Release form: coated tablets. Take 1 tablet orally in the evening before bed. If there is no effect, then the dose is increased to 2-3 tablets. Children over 6 years old are prescribed 1 tablet in the evening.

Side effects:

bloating, nausea;
abdominal pain, heaviness;
excessive loss of water with long-term use;
decrease in blood pressure (blood pressure).

Contraindications:

intestinal obstruction;
acute inflammation in the peritoneum;
strangulated hernia;
insufficient potassium;
bleeding;
acute cystitis, proctitis, hemorrhoids;
hypersensitivity to components.

The advantages include speed of impact and low price.

The downside is that it has an irritating effect on the intestines and is addictive.

Average cost of the drug for 30 tablets. – 30 rub.

Weak

The drug is classified as a contact medication. Normally, sulfatases are synthesized by beneficial bacteria, breaking down components into simple elements. When microflora sulfatases and Slabilen components combine, metabolites appear that irritate the intestinal mucosa. Peristalsis increases, water absorption decreases. No spasms during bowel movements.

Available as coated tablets. Doses and features of use are selected for each individual separately. Taken orally in the evening before bedtime.

Side effects - diarrhea.

Contraindications:

abdominal pain of unknown origin;
intestinal obstruction;
strangulated hernia;
bleeding;
dehydration;
children under 4 years old.

Among the advantages, it is worth highlighting the absence of spasms in the intestines under the influence of drugs, and the permissibility of use from 4 years.

Cons: a large number of contraindications.

Average cost for 20 tablets. – 170 rubles.

Laxigal

This laxative drug gives results 10-12 hours after administration.

ATTENTION: The active form, which is formed due to hydrolysis under the influence of intestinal microbes, directly excites the nerve endings of its tissue, thus accelerating the passage of feces and reducing the absorption of water and electrolytes.

Available in the form of drops, not in tablet form. Taken orally before bedtime:

from 10 years and older – 12-24 drops;
at the age of 4-10 years – 6-12 drops.

Among the negative effects:

stomach ache;
diarrhea;
dehydration;
decreased water balance;
convulsive conditions;
decrease in blood pressure;
impotence.

Contraindications include:

strangulated hernia;
intestinal obstruction;
bleeding;
dehydration;
acute inflammation;
children under 4 years old;
hypersensitivity.

Advantages: liquid form, which is easier and faster absorbed by the body, can be taken from 4 years of age.

Cons: contraindications, irritating effect on the intestines.

Cost for 10 ml – 170 rubles.

Guttalax

This medication is a derivative of triarylmethane. Affects only the large intestine. The active ingredients stimulate receptors in the large intestine.

The effect develops after 6-12 hours.

Taken orally with plenty of water in the evenings:

children over 10 years of age and adults are prescribed 1-2 tablets;
at the age of 4-10 years – ½-1 tablet.

Side effects:

Contraindications:

strangulated hernia;
obstruction;
acute inflammation;
bleeding;
spastic constipation;
I trimester of pregnancy;
dehydration;
age up to 4 years;
cystitis;
allergy to components.

The advantage is that the drug acts only on the large intestine in a fairly short time.

Disadvantages: impossibility of taking it in the first trimester and a large list of contraindications.

Average price 240 rub. for 20 tab.

Watch a video about Guttalax laxative tablets:

Lactusan

The medication increases the absorption and excretion of ammonia molecules. Lactulose activates the growth of acidophilic microbes and stops the proliferation of proteolytic microbes. There is a decrease in the synthesis of toxins.

Self-medicating constipation is not a good idea. If problems occur frequently, you should consult a doctor.

The effect is achieved after a few days of taking the tablets.

Available in tablet form. Used with food:

adults require 4-5 tablets 2 times a day;
children over 5 years old – 1 tablet. 3 times a day.

Side effects: on the first day of use, flatulence may occur, which goes away after 3 days.

IMPORTANT: Among the contraindications: galactosemia and allergies to the components of the drug. Advantages in a small list of side effects and contraindications, mild effect on the intestines, possibility of long-term use.

Disadvantages – cost and inability to accept children under 5 years old.

The average price is 290 rubles per package.

Defenorm

Due to the content of plantain husk, the medicine has a gentle effect on the intestines and normalizes stool during diarrhea.

Plantain swells and irritates intestinal receptors, which causes peristalsis to normalize, increasing the volume and softening of feces.

The effect is achieved after 6-10 hours.

Available in capsule form. Can be used regardless of food intake. The dose is adjusted by the doctor based on the effect obtained. Suitable for long term use.

Side effects: bloating, feeling of fullness in the intestines. They pass on their own.

When taking Defenorm, you need to drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day.

Among the contraindications:

individual intolerance to the components of the composition;
intestinal obstruction;
severe diabetes;
age up to 12 years.

Advantages of the drug: natural composition, possibility of long-term use, low number of adverse reactions.

Disadvantages: inability to accept children under 12 years of age.

The average cost is 150 rubles.

Senadexin

Anthraglycosides, when broken down into anthronols and anthrones, irritate the intestinal receptors. As a result, the absorption of water and electrolytes is disrupted. This helps increase the volume of stool and soften it. This speeds up peristalsis.

The required effect is achieved after 8 hours.

Release form: tablets. Use once a day with water. Dose size for adults: 1-2 tablets. Children – 1 tablet. The course is selected by the doctor.

Side effect:

stomach ache;
anorexia;
allergy;
diarrhea;
flatulence;
hematuria;
atony;
digestive disorders.

Among the contraindications:

allergy to components;
metrorrhagia;
bleeding;
Crohn's disease;
intestinal pathologies.

Pros: use for chronic constipation, natural ingredients, can be used from 6 years of age, cheap drug.

Cons: a large number of contraindications, impossibility of long-term use due to dehydration.

Average price – 25 rubles.

Poslabin Lactulose

Under the influence of the medication, the flora in the intestine changes, and the number of lactobacilli increases. This increases acidity in the intestinal lumen, stimulates work, and increases the volume of feces. The result is a laxative effect without affecting smooth muscles and mucous membranes..

Available in tablet form. The dose is selected individually.

Contraindications include galactosemia and allergies to the products in the composition.

Side effects are minor and go away on their own.

Cost – 105 rubles for 30 tablets.

Acipol

This probiotic is a lyophilized mixture of kefir fungi and lactobacilli, containing lactobacilli acidophilus. The tablets have an antimicrobial effect. Acipol regenerates natural microflora, helps normalize the synthesis of vitamins and other active substances.

Produced in capsule form. Prescribed for children from 3 months and adults. It is taken orally without biting. Doses and duration are selected individually. Children 3 months old – 3 years: 1 capsule 2-3 times per day. Children over 3 years old and adults -1 caps. 3-4 times a day.

There are no side effects. Contraindications include hypersensitivity.

Pros: no side effects, can be used by children from 3 months.

Cons: price.

Cost – 320 rubles for 30 capsules.

What chewable capsules are there for constipation?

A medicine called Fitolax is available in the form of chewable tablets. It has many advantages, and compared to laxatives, it not only regenerates stool, but also normalizes the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract as a whole.

The composition of the drug includes natural ingredients:

senna extract;
apricot pulp;
dill seeds;
plantain.

This drug is classified as a dietary supplement that can be taken for chronic constipation, which manifests itself due to minor dysfunction. Usually prescribed for indigestion and intestinal atony.

Features of use during pregnancy

ATTENTION: You should not take constipation pills during pregnancy. Almost all of them irritate intestinal receptors, which can cause uterine contractions.

Preparations with lactulose are allowed only under the supervision of a doctor.

Medicines for children

Children are more often prescribed syrups than tablets. But among drugs in the form of tablets we can distinguish:

lactulose-based prelax and normolact;
Duphalac (based on natural ingredients).

Only a doctor should select the appropriate medicine. You should not conduct experiments; it is better to consult a specialist if health problems arise.

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Constipation is a very common phenomenon that, for various reasons, affects about 20% of the entire population, regardless of age. We are talking about the absence of bowel movements for more than 24 hours or the inability to completely empty the intestines. Depending on the cause of the problem and the type of constipation, laxatives of various effects may be prescribed, which will be discussed in more detail below.

Features of the use of laxatives

It is quite natural that you want to get rid of constipation as quickly as possible; for this purpose, victims, bypassing the doctor, look for the strongest laxative in the pharmacy, forgetting that:

Most of these drugs have contraindications.
If taken uncontrolled, there is a high risk of addiction.
In case of sudden constipation, the best effect is provided by microenemas and suppositories, and a chronic problem should be eliminated using prebiotics in tablet form.
The drug should be taken before a night's rest, since it begins to act only after 6-12 hours.

Laxatives are intended to stimulate peristalsis and speed up the excretion of feces from the body. Release forms include tablets, drops, microenemas, suppositories, herbal preparations. Based on their origin, medicines are divided into herbal and synthetic.

Mechanisms of action and indications for use

Medicines are divided into certain groups according to their mechanism of action:

To improve secretion and slow down the adsorption of H2O in the large intestine.
To increase the volume of the organ.
To simplify the movement of feces through the intestines.

When classifying, drugs are divided into irritants, produced in suppositories, tablets, powders; prebiotics that affect intestinal microflora; osmotic, which have the most rapid and powerful laxative effect, and fillers.

Important. It is necessary to understand that the selection of funds should be carried out by a specialist, since it depends on the restrictions on use, side effects, and the reasons that provoked the problem.

Irritant drugs

This group includes most of the remedies for constipation made on the basis of medicinal plants. They have many limitations and side effects, however, almost every drug in the group is a very effective laxative. During the intake process, irritation of the nerve endings of the intestinal wall occurs, which causes contraction of the intestinal muscles, increased secretion and increased movement of feces.

Among the most common side effects of the drugs in this group are “lazy bowels” and abdominal discomfort due to increased accumulation of feces, rapid movement of masses, which irritates pain receptors.

The following drugs are contraindicated:

When carrying and feeding a child.
In infancy.
For abdominal pain of unknown origin.
For a number of pathologies - pancreatitis, peritonitis, hemorrhoids.
In case of obstruction of the organ and perforation of its walls.
For inflammation of organs located in the abdominal cavity and their bleeding.

The best laxative in this group for cleansing the intestines is Bisacodyl and its analogues (Dulcolax or Bisad and others).

Also very popular are:

Sennosides, which include Regulax and Herbion Laxana, Senade;
preparations based on Sodium Picosulfate (Regulax and Guttalax);
medications based on Glycerol (Glycerin suppositories).

Osmotic substances

Such drugs are recommended as symptomatic drugs, whose systemic effect is very small. These agents, penetrating into the intestines, increase osmotic pressure, taking water from nearby tissues; accordingly, its amount in the intestinal lumen increases, stool increases in volume and softens, and the process of emptying is simplified.

The most common side effects include abdominal pain, water-salt imbalance, intestinal cramps and dehydration. Drugs in this group are not recommended for use by elderly patients with cardiac pathologies, children and victims with diseases of the digestive system.

If we consider which is the most powerful laxative in the group, we should mention:

Carlsbad artificial salt.
Macrogol or its analogues - Realaxan, Fortrans, Forlax.
Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate, among which analogues are Magnesia, Epsom or bitter salt.
The drug Microlax, which is a rectal solution. Moreover, its effect is combined, both diluting and irritating.

Prebiotics

Prebiotics are indigestible carbohydrates that, when entering the body, reach the lower parts of the digestive tract without changing the structure. Prebiotics act similarly to both osmotic and irritant agents, attracting moisture to the intestines, stimulating the contraction of muscle tissue. These drugs are prescribed for chronic forms of constipation, intestinal dysbiosis, poisoning, and hepatic encephalopathy.

Considering the natural origin of prebiotics, side effects are almost completely absent, with the exception of flatulence, which disappears two to three days after use. A contraindication is individual intolerance to the components.

The list of the most effective drugs includes:

Lactulose and its analogues - Duphalac, Romphalac, Goodluck and others;
Lactitol (Importal N and Exportal).

Colon fillers

Bulking agents are synthetic and natural products that are not absorbed by the intestines, are difficult to digest, and are designed to increase the volume of feces and speed up bowel movements. Such substances have a mild and slow effect, but even in the presence of chronic constipation, not all victims strive to use them, since side effects include bloating and pain. Intestinal motility does not improve when taking the medications.

The most popular substances in this group include:

flax and flower seeds;
wheat bran;
seaweed;
Mucofalk;
Methyl cellulose.

Important! When taking medications, it is important to maintain a drinking regime, consuming at least two liters of liquid per day.

The drugs are contraindicated in pregnant women, as there is a risk of miscarriage, in the presence of intestinal obstruction, and in case of neurological problems.

Laxative drops

Constipation is often caused by insufficient physical activity, eating disorders, improperly composed diet and sedentary work, and emotional overload. Laxative drops can refer to irritating drugs, prebiotics, drugs that stimulate organ peristalsis.

If we consider the most effective laxative drops, the list of fast-acting drugs can include:

Guttalax is aimed at stimulating intestinal function - the active component of the drug begins to act once it enters the large intestine, the effect becomes noticeable after 6-12 hours. Prescribed before surgical interventions to normalize stool.
Weak - increases intestinal tone, improves peristalsis of the organ, is used for gastrointestinal diseases accompanied by constipation, hemorrhoids, inflammation occurring in the rectum, in case of anal fissures.
Ogarkov drops stabilize stools and improve peristalsis, preventing fermentation and putrefactive processes.
Hilak forte - normalizes the intestinal microflora, recommended after antibiotic treatment, taking medications that disrupt the gastrointestinal tract, and for chronic gastroenteritis.

For elderly patients in whom constipation becomes common, Regulax and Prelax drops are prescribed, which have a mild effect. A more effective remedy is Forlax, but before taking it you should consult a therapist.

Baby Calm, which contains exclusively herbal ingredients, is approved for babies from birth. The composition includes oils that stimulate peristalsis and reduce gas formation. However, the remedy will not help with congenital pathologies and gastrointestinal diseases accompanied by constipation.

Constipation is a very sensitive topic. It turns out that about half of the population of our country faces this problem. The question of choosing laxatives is especially acute for older people who often experience chronic constipation. Is it safe to take laxatives? Why does a laxative stop working over time, and what to do about it? Which drugs are used for acute and which for chronic constipation? We will try to find the answers in this article.

What is constipation?

We can talk about constipation when the time interval between bowel movements becomes more than 2 days(48 hours). A person has to make a lot of effort to perform the act of defecation (straining). The patient experiences discomfort, fullness of the rectum, and when emptying, a feeling of incomplete fecal ejection. The stool becomes dry.

If we talk about acute constipation, it occurs suddenly and can be a symptom of intestinal obstruction, pathology of the anorectal area, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and is also associated with bed rest and taking certain medications.

If symptoms of constipation continue for several months, then it is considered chronic. Most often, constipation is a symptom of another disease.

There are many reasons for delayed bowel emptying: these are neurological disorders, endocrine diseases, physical inactivity (especially in old age), poor nutrition, dysbacteriosis, intestinal motility disorders, hemorrhoids, injuries of the colon and tailbone, and much more. Constipation is also caused by pregnancy, nervous shock, traveling long distances, taking certain medications, for example, coating agents, iron supplements, tranquilizers, etc.

The many causes of constipation make it difficult to treat the latter with medication. It is imperative to find out the reason for the prolonged absence of stool. Only then is treatment prescribed. Laxatives are used in complex treatment, which is aimed primarily at eliminating the cause of the disease that caused constipation.

Laxatives

Laxatives increase intestinal motility and promote bowel movement.

Treatment of constipation with laxatives should not be permanent. Many laxatives are addictive, and as a result of uncontrolled use, the intestines stop emptying on their own. But first things first.

Let's consider the simplest classification of drugs - by use:

Drugs used for acute constipation
Drugs used for chronic constipation

Remedies for acute constipation

In case of sudden absence of stool, the following are used:

Saline laxatives
Castor oil
Bisacodyl (Dulcolax, Laxacodil, Laxatin, Pirilax, Stadalax)
Guttalax (Laxigal, Slabicap, Slabilen, Regulax)
Suppositories with glycerin

Saline laxatives(inorganic salts) are time-tested products. They cause mechanical irritation of intestinal receptors. By reducing the absorption of nutrients and water, they dilute the contents of the intestine, which puts pressure on its walls. As a result, the receptors are irritated, the intestinal walls begin to contract (peristalsis increases) and the intestines are emptied.

Saline laxatives take effect within 2-4 hours and should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach. These include sodium sulfate (Glauber's salt), magnesium sulfate (magnesia), and phosphates. These drugs are used for acute constipation and poisoning in order to quickly remove toxins. But when taking them, nausea and abdominal pain occur. Contraindicated for children with chronic constipation or intestinal obstruction.

Magnesia is known to be used for hypertension, so this drug cannot be used with low blood pressure.

The disadvantage of these drugs is that they are unpredictable and often lead to dehydration.

Castor oil refers to drugs that chemically irritate intestinal receptors. In the small intestine, castor oil is broken down to form ricinoleic acid, which irritates the receptors of the colon wall, peristalsis increases, and the intestines empty. Castor oil causes a single bowel movement 5-6 hours after use. It is necessary to pay attention to the fact that this drug is contraindicated during pregnancy, because increases uterine contraction. Therefore, it is also used to stimulate labor.

Bisacodyl- a synthetic product that also causes chemical irritation of intestinal receptors. It acts very quickly - after 1 hour (if the release form is a suppository). Most often, this drug is prescribed for constipation associated with decreased intestinal motility (atony). It is used not only for acute, but also for chronic constipation. Synonyms for Bisacodyl are Dulcolax, Laxacodil, Laxatin, Pirilax, Stadalax.

Guttalax acts on intestinal receptors through chemical irritation. Just like Bisacodyl is a universal drug: it is used for acute, chronic and atonic constipation. Guttalax drops should be taken in the evening with a small amount of water.

Guttalax contains sodium picosulfate and sorbitol. Other drugs containing sodium picosulfate: Regulax, Slabilen, Slabicap, Laxigal.

Remedies for chronic constipation

Seaweed, Laminarid;
Forlax (Macrogol, Tranzipeg, Fortrans);
Medicinal plant raw materials;
Pursenides;
Tisasen;
Regulax;
Bisacodyl;
Guttalax;
Vaseline oil;
Vegetable oils;
Suppositories with glycerin.

Sea kale and a complex preparation based on it - Laminaride in the intestine attracts water, swells, increases in volume and causes mechanical irritation of intestinal receptors. Application: for chronic and atonic constipation. Action in 8-10 hours.

Forlax (Macrogol, Tranzipeg, Fortrans) when taken orally, it also causes mechanical irritation of the intestines, because swells and increases the fluid content in the intestines. Used for chronic constipation. Effective within 24-48 hours. Apply in the morning before or during meals. This drug can be taken by pregnant women. Many drugs are prohibited during this period, because increased intestinal motility contributes to premature labor. Forlax and its synonyms are recommended for elderly people with hypertension and diabetes, diseases of the cardiovascular system, kidney and liver failure.

Medicinal plant raw materials

For a laxative effect, plants containing anthraglycosides and preparations based on them are used. The plants themselves (infusions and decoctions from them), as well as preparations based on them, are very popular among pharmacy visitors who self-medicate. Long-term use of these drugs leads to the fact that the intestines cease to empty themselves. Therefore, prescribing, or rather self-prescribing, drugs containing anthranoids is unacceptable.

Anthraglycosides are broken down in the small intestine and form the substance emodin, which is absorbed into the blood and released into the lumen of the large intestine, irritating the sensitive nerve endings of the latter. As a result, peristalsis increases and the intestines empty. The laxative effect of these drugs, used for chronic constipation, appears after 8-10 hours. It is noteworthy that all products based on these plants are addictive, i.e. Over time, the effect weakens and disappears completely.

Buckthorn bark preparations: laxatives, Ramnil, buckthorn extract, buckthorn syrup.

Senna leaf preparations(cassia, Alexandria leaf): infusion, dry extract in tablets, Anthrosennin, Senadexin, Pursenide, Tisasen, Senadex, Senade, Glaxenna, Herbion Laxana, Regulax.

Rhubarb root preparations- powder, tablets, dry extract.

Joster fruits, from which a decoction is prepared.

Also used for chronic constipation Bisacodyl and its synonyms, Guttalax, Regulax(combined drug).

To soften stool and promote it in case of chronic constipation, use vegetable oils (fennel, olive, almond), petroleum jelly, sodium docusate (Norgalax), and suppositories with glycerin. The effect of their use occurs after 4-5 hours.

Laxative during pregnancy

As mentioned above, a small number of medications are allowed during pregnancy. This is due to the fact that a large increase in intestinal motility can cause tone in the muscles of the uterus. But pregnancy is also known to contribute to constipation. What to do if such a nuisance happens to the expectant mother? To begin with, you should resort to a non-medicinal method: increase the volume of fluid you drink, eat beets, prunes, an apple or a spoonful of vegetable oil on an empty stomach, one-day kefir, exclude fixing products (rice, stale kefir, barley, etc.) If simple remedies do not help, then there is several medications used during pregnancy.

Dufalak, Prelax, Normolakt
Fortrans
Microlax

Dufalak contains the prebiotic lactulose, which is broken down by colon bacteria. The breakdown products of lactulose gently stimulate intestinal motility; in addition, stool softens, increasing in volume, which causes mechanical irritation of colon receptors. As a result, the intestines are emptied. The effect occurs within 3-6 hours. Preparations contain lactulose Prelax and Normolakt.

The drug Fortrans (Forlax, Macrogol, Tranzipeg) was mentioned above.

Here's the remedy Microlax appeared on the pharmaceutical market relatively recently. Microclysters of this drug contain several components that dilute stool. Emptying occurs quickly (5-15 minutes). Recommended during pregnancy and even for babies during the newborn period.

Conclusion

Pharmacies offer many types of drugs that have a laxative effect. The active ingredients in them are very often repeated and combined. That is, the same drug can have, for example, 5-10 synonyms. And yet, with such a variety of names, in mild cases it is better to do without the use of laxatives for many reasons.

Of course, these reasons are the side effects of laxatives. As a result of the use of laxatives, the intestinal walls become atonic, their sensitive nerve endings become accustomed to drug irritants. As a result, an increase in laxative doses is required. Then the intestines stop moving the contents without drugs (especially after drugs senna, buckthorn, Bisacodyl). The consequence of this is a long and methodical weaning under the supervision of a doctor from the drug dependence of the intestines.

The use of laxatives leads to protein loss and the removal of essential microelements (for example, potassium) from the body. Often, due to the use of these drugs, inflammation of the colon occurs - colitis, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and flatulence.

Unfortunately, nowadays, due to self-medication with laxatives and uncontrolled use, an increasing number of patients are suffering. After all, laxatives are purchased not only for the purpose of relieving constipation.

In pursuit of an “ideal” figure, ladies use both laxatives themselves and drugs based on them. But the effect is still the same. And the side effects are absolutely the same. Maybe the weight will drop for a while. But the damage caused to the body will definitely result in extra pounds.
Very often, laxatives are bought by a person who thinks that the intestines should be emptied every day, but he has them once every 2 days. But stool once every 2 days is normal. and does not require the use of laxatives.

By changing your diet to include foods rich in fiber and fermented milk products, you can cure so-called nutritional constipation (diet-related). If the cause is a violation of the intestinal microflora (dysbacteriosis), the doctor will prescribe a pro- or prebiotic drug that normalizes it.

Laxatives, if necessary, act as an addition to the main treatment. In some cases, such as the preoperative and postoperative period, etc., laxatives cannot be avoided. Based on all this, we can say that laxatives should only be prescribed by a doctor. Self-medication with drugs should be avoided. But carefully look for the cause of constipation.

Fast-acting laxatives for constipation must be selected taking into account the person’s current problem. Good laxatives come in different effects and are suitable for children and adults.

How to choose a laxative?

Fast-acting laxatives are not always harmless and should be prescribed by a doctor. The specialist will diagnose the patient and, having identified the cause of constipation, prescribe a safe medicine. A person can independently purchase a quick laxative at the pharmacy, but do not forget that there is an addictive medicine, and you need to be careful with it. A laxative for constipation should be selected according to certain criteria, the table shows some of them.

Criteria	Types of laxatives
How does the drug work in terms of speed?	Soft and fast action. Strong and instant, but unsafely carried. A weak laxative of mild and slow action. Instant, but not strong effect. Quick drugs with a strong effect, but harmless.
Addictive Potency	Non-addictive medications. The drugs are addictive only after long-term use. They immediately become addictive to the body.
Origin of laxatives for constipation	Plant based. Synthetic based.
Drug release form	Drops. Pills. Powders. Herbal infusions. Syrups. Oils. Gel. Rectal suppositories
How to deal with the problem	They influence the very source of constipation and eliminate it, constipation quickly goes away, and the person begins to empty the intestines on their own without drugs. They only temporarily induce stool in a person; for further bowel movements, repeated use of the laxative will be necessary.

You should not take medications for constipation for a long time without consulting a doctor. You can take a laxative on your own only if the cause of constipation is known and the course of treatment will not be long, otherwise harmful drugs can cause intestinal atony.

Which remedy is best to help with constipation depends on the cause of its occurrence, so you should not be surprised by the lack of stool after taking the medicine, it’s just that the laxative was not chosen correctly.

One of the main causes of constipation and diarrhea is use of various medications. To improve bowel function after taking medications, you need to do it every day. drink a simple remedy ...

Types of laxatives

There are many types of laxatives for constipation, and a person can choose the best one for himself only after studying in detail the effect of each remedy on the intestines and other organs.

Modern new generation laxatives can be divided into four main groups:

Drugs irritating effect- these are the most effective and powerful remedies in the fight against constipation. Laxative drugs of this group affect the intestinal mucosa, irritating it and increasing peristalsis. These are the best laxatives when you need to relieve short-term acute constipation. If a person has problems with bowel movements every day, then the use of such drugs can only make things worse - lead to intestinal atony. Therefore, carriers of this group should be consumed no more than a couple of days.
Drugs osmotic action- prevent the outflow of fluid from the intestines, which helps soften stool and speed its evacuation from the body. An osmotic agent is light, effective and harmless, which helps to quickly remove diarrhea, but just like irritants, it does not cure the problem. This modern laxative can be used for a relatively long time for chronic constipation; it does not cause addiction, even if you drink it often without stopping. Just remember that the intestines themselves will not begin to cope with constipation until it is cured.
Prebiotics and probiotics- fight intestinal dysbiosis, populating it with beneficial bacteria. These drugs are often used for acute poisoning, viral or bacterial infection and treatment with antibiotics. A probiotic is a mild, gentle remedy for constipation, but effective, and a prebiotic is an addition to it - it helps bacteria take root in the intestines, as it carries nutrients for them. All probiotics and prebiotics act gently and most importantly, they can be taken for a very long time with chronic constipation without fear, since there are no side effects in the form of an overpopulation of intestinal bacteria, the excess ones will simply go away with the feces.
Enteric fillers- are able to increase the volume of feces, which contributes to intestinal irritation and accelerates the onset of defecation. Preparations in this group are herbal and synthetic, but both classes help in the fight against constipation. It is better to use laxatives as prescribed by a doctor, since only he can determine the appropriate course of treatment.

Irritant drugs

For constipation that occurs one-time due to stress or poor nutrition, it is allowed to use laxatives of this group. They will quickly eliminate constipation and remove feces, completely cleansing the intestines.

Their action is based on irritation of the intestinal walls throughout its entire length, or only in the rectum. The first option allows you to enhance peristalsis in the thick section and completely release it, while the second only helps to induce bowel movements, and then the body must cope on its own. The list of laxatives in this group is very large and they all have a similar effect, so we will consider only the main ones.

An osmotic saline laxative perfectly relieves constipation, but using the drug is often not recommended.

According to the instructions, Carlsbad salt should be used on an empty stomach in the amount of 1 tsp. The salt must first be diluted in a glass of water and drunk, after 40 minutes you need to have breakfast.

You should be careful; if you take laxatives frequently, you may experience:

diarrhea.
disturbance of electrolyte balance in the body.
intestinal atony.

Prebiotics and probiotics

Drugs in this group cope with constipation gently and do not harm the intestines. They are very often prescribed in childhood.

The main indications for their use are:

intestinal dysbiosis, accompanied by constipation.
treatment with antibacterial agents leading to stool retention in humans.

Probiotics and prebiotics can be used for a long course of treatment. There are very few contraindications for the drugs, but you should still be careful and consult a doctor before taking any laxative.

Portalac consists of the active ingredient lactulose and has a lot of drugs - synonyms (Lactulose, Duphalac, Goodluck, Normaze, Romphalak, Poslabin Lactulose).

Due to the active substance, beneficial bacteria begin to normalize intestinal function, and the osmotic pressure in the intestinal lumen increases, which promotes rapid emptying. The drug must be prescribed individually for each patient by a doctor, but you can take a laxative according to the instructions - for three days, patients drink 15 ml of the drug three times a day. In subsequent days, the dosage is reduced to 10 ml of the product.

Contraindications to taking Portalac are:

unexplained abdominal pain.
intestinal obstruction.
allergy to the components of the drug.
bleeding of the intestinal tract.
presence of colostomy.

Very rarely, patients experience allergic reactions to a laxative, and then they should stop taking it and consult a doctor to select an analogue that will help eliminate constipation with the least problems.

The active component of the product is lacthiol monohydrate, which enters unchanged into the large intestine and there populates the body with beneficial bacteria. The drug actively increases osmotic pressure in the large intestine and softens stool, promoting rapid evacuation of intestinal contents.

You need to mix 20 g of powder with any liquid (even a small volume - 200 ml) and drink it at once. This dosage is maintained until the stool returns to normal, then it is reduced by half and the laxative is continued to be taken to consolidate the effect.

You need to be very careful with this remedy and do not take it yourself if you have:

Galactosemia.
Mechanical stagnation of feces.
Rectal bleeding.
Lesions of the digestive tract of organic nature.

Do not worry about slight bloating and discomfort in the abdomen at first, as this is a normal reaction of the body and the symptoms will subside after a few days.

A synonym for Exportal is Importal L, a drug for constipation very similar in action and composition.

Enteric fillers

Laxatives in this group are not absorbed through the blood and easily enter directly into the large intestine. They increase the volume of feces, which sometimes leads to bloating and flatulence. Intestinal filler is most often a herbal or other natural remedy, and therefore it is practically harmless to the body. These drugs are effective only if everything is relatively in order with intestinal motility; with atony and hypotension, intestinal fillers may not bring the desired result.

Different laxatives cause bowel movements in humans at different times:

Agar-agar leads to bowel movement after 12 hours.
Fleawort seeds take effect only after 24 hours.
Methylcellulose causes bowel movements in 1-3 days.

In addition to these products, Sterculia, psyllium husk, flax seed, and wheat bran can be used as intestinal fillers of plant origin.

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An important condition for laxatives to work is to drink enough fluid - at least eight glasses of water per day. Otherwise, the effect will be weak, and it will be difficult for the body to cope with the swelling of solid feces.

Price

Quick-acting laxatives for constipation vary widely in price. They can be put into a certain rating, starting with the most popular means. This is explained by the fact that people strive to remove constipation not only mechanically, but also to influence the problem, so as not to subsequently suffer from the lack of bowel movements.

Therefore, the first places are occupied by osmotic laxatives, followed by irritant drugs. Probiotics are slightly less popular in the fight against constipation, since they do not eliminate the disease as quickly as a person wants, but they act gently and are not addictive.

The table contains data on the funds considered and their price range:

Laxative	Moscow	Volgograd	Kazan
	115-564 rub.	564 rub.	521 rub.
Lavacol	153-202 rub.	211 rub.	208 rub.
	290-895 rub.	359-751 rub.	343-729 rub.