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A laxative is a substance that causes increased excretion of fecal matter. They are used for constipation and are sometimes abused by women. There are many different types, and some are prescription-only. Some laxatives work by stimulating the gut. These are more popular, are plant-derived, and vary in strength. Examples are senna, rhubarb, cascara sagrada. They may cause abdominal discomfort, depending on the dose and the individual. Some are just stool softeners (example docusate (prescription only)). Others are bulk-formers, which make it easier to pass stool. An example is fiber, which includes psyllium and bran. These are naturally-occurring substances that are very healthful to have in the diet. (think of bran cereal and oatmeal.)
Laxatives are especially important for people taking medicines that cause constipation, such as certain medications for pain. The prescribing doctor should remember to prescribe a laxative with these pain medications.
It is always best to check with your doctor if you are suddenly having bad constipation or abdominal pain, or if your constipation or abdominal pain does not go away.
warning- Diarrhea can happen after taking laxatives, especially in certain people. Follow the dosing instructions to help prevent this and if you continue to have a problem, see a doctor.
Wikipedia has a good answer to your question, also, and discusses more categories.
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Are Polyols Laxative?
Polyols are laxative.
What is the definition of 'laxative effects'?
A laxative is something that will make you go to the toilet when you are constipated. "Laxative effects" means that it may make you get diarrhea.
Does mixing water with honey make a laxative?
Yes, actually, it does make a mild laxative. Drink enough of it and it will make a great laxative.
How do magnesium pills with a a laxative?
Magnesium is used as a laxative, but really I recommend to manage the cause of constipation is better than use a laxative for prolonged time
Is aniseed a laxative?
No. It is used as an expectorant, a diuretic and to settle ones stomach, but it is not considered to be a laxative.
When was the first laxative invented?
Nobody knows. The laxative is a discovery that predates recorded history.
What does the laxative habit cause?
One of the most common causes of constipation is the laxative habit
Is soy milk a laxative?
Yes, it's a mild laxative. You can get coconut milk or water, and depending on a person's bowel tolerance it can effect them more or less. But it is a mild laxative.
Laxative for a puppy-?
If you puppy is having problems with bowel movement you need to contact your vet so you can get a laxative prescription. Be careful though because if the issue is due to blockage or obstruction a laxative could cause further damage.
What base is a laxative?
Magnesium hydroxide Mg(OH)2 is a laxative. Active ingredient in milk of magnesia.
Does Nicotine act as a laxative?
No
What do you do if you are consitpated?
Take a laxative.
