Laxatives: Uses, Types, Benefits, and Safety Guide
Laxatives are substances or medications used to relieve constipation by promoting bowel movements. They work by softening stool, increasing intestinal movement, or drawing water into the intestines to make stool easier to pass. While they can be effective for short-term relief, they should be used carefully to avoid dependency or side effects.
What Are Laxatives?
Laxatives are commonly used to treat constipation, a condition where bowel movements are infrequent or difficult to pass. Constipation can be caused by low fiber intake, dehydration, lack of physical activity, certain medications, or underlying health conditions. Laxatives help restore normal bowel function when lifestyle changes alone are not enough.
Types of Laxatives