What is a laxative?

Answer 1

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.