If empirical treatment of patients with chronic constipation fails, osmotic laxatives (e.g. lactulose and polyethylene glycol), a serotonin (5-HT 4) receptor agonist (e.g. tegaserod) or a chloride ...

Osmotic laxatives draw water into the bowel because they are hypertonic, essentially flushing the colon. Examples of osmotic laxatives include milk of magnesia (which also softens stools), sodium ...

Paradoxical diarrhea affects thousands yet remains widely misunderstood. Learn how this condition develops when liquid stool ...

It's important to talk to a healthcare provider for their guidance before using a laxative. Laxative options may include: Fiber supplements, which can help you increase your fiber intake if you don't ...

Magnesium hydroxide, the active ingredient in milk of magnesia, is in a class of medications called saline laxatives. It is an osmotic laxative, meaning that when ingested, it draws water into the ...

You can usually go back to having normal stools by increasing your fiber and fluid intake. Severe constipation may require more aggressive treatment, like osmotic laxatives or enemas. If these efforts ...

A healthy diet and hydration should be your first defense against constipation. When these aren’t enough, certain supplements can provide safe, effective relief. A gastroenterologist recommends ...

Start with small amounts and increase gradually. Try over-the-counter options – Stool softeners like docusate sodium or osmotic laxatives such as polyethylene glycol can provide relief for ...