Today, any pharmacy has a wide selection of laxatives at any price, however, it is important to choose a medicine so that it best matches the diagnosis in each specific case.

ADVICE: Therefore, it is better not to look at the cost, but to consult a doctor for an examination and a prescription: it is important not only to get rid of pain and discomfort, but also to eliminate the cause of constipation.

So, all laxatives fast action are divided into the following categories:

• annoying;
• osmotic;
• prebiotics;
• fillers.

All of the medications listed have a laxative effect, however, they are indicated for various reasons constipation

That is why to appoint suitable drug must be a doctor!

Indications for the use of rapid-acting laxatives

IMPORTANT: It is important to understand that laxatives (including fast laxatives) do not treat the cause of constipation, but only eliminate the consequences of this problem: they cleanse the intestines, helping to remove feces from the colon.

The effect of these drugs is short-term: only immediately after the next dose of the drug. Therefore, these medications cannot be considered as getting rid of the problem: it is important to get rid of the cause of constipation, only then will there be a lasting positive effect.

Pharmacodynamics

Let's find out how fast laxatives affect the body, achieving the desired cleansing effect.

1. Annoying. The effect of drugs in this group is based on stimulation and activation of the intestines. The effect occurs directly on the receptors of the rectum, and defecation occurs, on average, 6-10 hours after taking the medicine. These funds have the most quick effect: if you want to eliminate the problem of constipation as quickly as possible, then you should use them. If you take the pill before bed, in the morning in most cases the stool will be normal.
2. Osmotic. This is very effective drugs against constipation Their positive impact is based on the retention of water in the intestines, due to which softening and swelling of stool occurs. As a result of this effect, feces are quickly pushed out: the long-awaited bowel movement occurs.
3. Prebiotics. These drugs are also called non-digestible carbohydrates. Reaching the colon, prebiotics affect the beneficial microflora located in it, stimulating its vital activity. Note that prebiotics, like osmotic agents, are able to attract water into the intestines, due to which feces come out faster. The impact of prebiotics, although not instantaneous, is the safest and most effective of all.
4. Fillers. These drugs are also called bulk drugs. Their effect is based on the absorption of water, stretching the intestinal walls, resulting in the process of bowel movement at a reflex level.

Review of the best, strongest and most effective tablets, potions and suppositories

Let's look at the most effective and safest remedies related to various types of quick laxatives.

Annoying

This category includes both funds for plant based, so synthetic drugs with components of chemical origin.

If we talk about herbal laxatives with irritating effects, then They usually contain the following components:

• senna leaves;
• rhubarb root;
• Joster fruits.

As for synthetic laxatives in this category, then the most effective of them include the following:

• Bisacodyl;
• Phytolax;
• Regulax;
• Gutalax.

ATTENTION: Glycerin and Glycelax suppositories also have an irritating effect. In some cases, their effect occurs within the first 15 minutes.

Osmotic

• magnesia;
• magnesium hydroxide;
• sodium sulfate;
• Citrate;
• Fortrans.

Prebiotics - the name of the drugs

This category of laxative drugs includes drugs based on lactose, fruit saccharides, and inulin. In addition to eliminating constipation, prebiotics help rid the intestines of dysbiosis, and also help remove toxins and poisons from the body. The most effective drugs:

• Hilak Forte;
• Lactofiltrum;
• Lactitol;
• Exportal;
• Duphalac.

Volumetric

The category of fillers can include both herbal products and those obtained synthetically (polysaccharides). Among the herbal remedies, the following can be noted::

• wheat bran;
• flax-seed;
• agar-agar.

As for synthetic fillers, then Methylcellulose is used for constipation. This drug appears as a crystalline white powder, it is usually made sweet, tastes good, and fills the intestines well.

Contraindications and side effects

ADVICE: You should not take such medications constantly. Due to prolonged and regular use of laxatives, the body literally “relaxes” and the intestines refuse to push feces without outside help.

Related this feature with the loss of tone in the intestinal muscles, they literally become “untrained” and weak.

When taking instant-acting laxatives for more than 10 days in a row, there may be an imbalance in the electrolyte balance of the blood, as well as water-salt metabolism. Also often, patients taking rapid laxatives complain of pain and cramping in the intestines after taking the drugs.

• if a chronic disease has worsened;
• for hemorrhoids;
• digestive disorders;
• polyps.

Naturally, individual intolerance to any components of the drug is also a contraindication to use this tool.

Contraindications for use in most cases are periods of pregnancy, breastfeeding, acute pancreatitis. In addition, rapid laxatives should not be used when:

• stomach and intestinal bleeding;
• inguinal hernia;
• with perforation of the stomach;
• inflammatory processes in the digestive organs;
• with peritonitis and cystitis;
• if any obvious signs intestinal obstruction.

Home Recipes

Except traditional medicine, there is also a folk: here, too, we can find many remedies that help quickly cleanse the intestines during constipation. Note that home remedies are not addictive and do not lead to the “ lazy bowel", are safe for the body, and can be used even by pregnant women. Let's look at some of the tools in this category.

Honey and water

To prepare the solution, mix tbsp in a glass of water. a spoonful of natural honey. The medicine is drunk before meals. The course of treatment is one and a half months, three procedures per day. Let us note the beneficial and mild effect of the honey solution on intestinal motility: although, perhaps, not as fast as that of synthetic drugs.

sour milk

Boiled milk in natural conditions It is fermented, after which a spoonful of vegetable oil is poured into a glass of liquid: this composition must be drunk at night.

In addition to the recipes listed above, you can to improve peristalsis, eat prunes and fresh plums. In general, almost all dried fruits have a laxative effect: you can also take raisins, dried apricots - both in their natural form, and cook compotes, make tinctures. The more fresh and coarse fiber there is in the diet, the less likely constipation is.

We found out which laxatives fall into the “quick-acting” category. As you can see, in certain cases similar drugs not only indicated, but also necessary, so the importance of these drugs is undeniable.

Take laxatives only as prescribed by a doctor, after a preliminary examination and diagnosis - in this case there is highest probability successful long-term relief from constipation.

Useful video

Watch the video on choosing fast-acting laxatives:

Cleaning intestinal system will help cope with some problems of the digestive tract. Most often, a laxative for colon cleansing at home is prescribed:

• before undergoing examinations and surgical interventions;
• in case of intoxication;
• in the treatment of helminthic infestations;
• during prolonged constipation.

Abuse of the procedure can lead to deterioration of health and difficulties with independent bowel movements. To achieve results, various drugs of both synthetic and natural origin are used.

Who should not undergo cleansing?

Sometimes the use of laxatives can provoke loose stool, as well as water-salt balance disorders. Abuse of cleansing leads to a lack of useful microelements and their poor absorption from incoming products.

• for inflammatory diseases of the digestive tract in the acute stage;
• with intestinal obstruction;
• during febrile syndrome;
• with bleeding from the uterus.

Women should be careful when pregnant and during menstruation, as well as children and elderly patients.

Types of laxatives

Based on the principle of action, laxative medications are divided into the following groups.

Medications for mitigation

Used for cleaning small intestine, capable of dissolving fecal matter. Contains Vaseline and almond oil, liquid paraffin and other substances. Prescribed for the purpose of prevention for persistent constipation, patients who have survived surgery, heart failure, women in postpartum period, with hemorrhoids, microtraumas of the anus.

Drugs that increase colon contents

Penetrating into the human body, active ingredients increase in volume and promote emptying. The medicines are based on fiber and pectin, which successfully bind toxins and waste products used for intoxication and constipation. These same substances are found in some fruits, vegetables, bran, and flax.

Contact laxatives

Included in substances activate rectal peristalsis, due to the interaction of active substances with the mucous membranes of intestinal cells. These medicines contain castor oil, rhubarb, buckthorn, sodium picosulfate, phenolphthalein.

Enemas

Colon cleansers used as microenemas have the ability to dissolve in the blood, bypassing the stomach, and are often prescribed by doctors. Most often, the volume of such enemas is no more than 100 ml..

Osmotic medications

Increase osmotic pressure in the intestinal system, they stop the dissolution of fluid, which causes the fecal matter to swell. Carlsbad salt, lactulose, sodium sulfate, having a mild effect, are not addictive, help cleanse all parts of the system, starting the natural process of emptying.

Other

Prucalopride and tegaserod are used for irritable bowel problems, as well as when other cleansing methods are ineffective.

Self-prescription of medications is unacceptable: only a doctor will help you figure out which remedy is best for a particular patient.

Classification

Substances for cleansing procedures that promote the rapid release of fecal matter and stimulate defecation are of mineral origin, for example, magnesium sulfates, Carlsbad salt, petroleum jelly, mineral waters.

Herbal preparations include buckthorn, rhubarb, aloe, seaweed, known for their laxative effect. In addition, synthetic medications are often used: phenolphthalein, isafenin.

Laxatives are divided depending on the period of onset of effect:

• Substances affecting thin section– podofil, castor oil. The result appears within 4-6 hours.
• Medicines that enhance the motor functioning of the intestinal system: sodium and magnesium sulfate. The effect can be obtained after 4-6 hours.
• Means that activate the work of the thick section: buckthorn bark, rhubarb - lead to emptying after 6 or more hours.

By intensity therapeutic effects Medicines are divided into:

• drugs that cause mushy stools of normal thickness;
• moderate-acting medications, in which fecal matter can be both soft and hard;
• Drastic medications cause abdominal cramps, hard work Gastrointestinal tract and profuse loose stools.

Laxatives can be classified depending on the principle of action:

• substances that increase the volume of feces and dilute feces. These include sodium and magnesium sulfate;
• agents that irritate receptors on mucous surfaces: buckthorn, senna, rhubarb;
• a laxative that thins the contents of the rectum and stimulates further movement of feces, for example, petroleum jelly;
• suppositories that cause the appearance of carbon dioxide in the organ. Practically have no negative consequences, prescribed to patients of different ages, including the elderly and children.

Who needs cleaning?

The need to cleanse the intestines occurs in the following categories of people:

• in patients who have not undergone a cleansing procedure for a long time or have never had one;
• when following any diet that involves fasting;
• when eating products of animal origin;
• with passive or sedentary life;
• during the abuse of harmful products containing flavorings and food additives;
• when including fatty, fried foods, alcoholic drinks and energy drinks in your diet.

Indications

Most often, salt preparations are washed down a large number water. The purpose of cleaning is to stimulate organ motility. Indications for the procedure are:

• frequent constipation;
• intoxication;
• removal of helminths;
• upcoming surgical interventions or rectal examinations;
• preventive purposes.

By using laxatives immediately after meals, you can significantly reduce their effectiveness - with the exception of suppositories.

Contraindications

Restrictions on the use of laxatives are:

• inflammation of the digestive tract in the acute stage;
• intestinal obstruction;
• uterine bleeding;
• severe kidney disease.

In such situations, laxatives can only be used under the supervision of a specialist. Medicines containing salt are completely prohibited.

Also, be careful when pregnant, during menstruation, in the elderly and childhood.

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Cleansing the intestines with laxatives should be done after consultation with a specialist who will tell you which laxative is better and more effective. Some drugs may cause side effects.

Negative consequences

Stimulation of the intestinal system can lead to poor digestibility useful substances entering the body with food. Some types of laxatives have a negative effect on the heart and blood vessels, and in women, on the uterus.

Systematic application special means for emptying may cause addiction.

Laxatives of natural origin have advantages over synthetic ones. If prolonged use of laxative medications is necessary, it is recommended to alternate them.

Abuse of cleansing procedures may cause diarrhea.. In addition, patients may experience pain in the abdominal area, water-salt imbalance, and lack of peristalsis of the organ. Sometimes the drugs provoke a change in the color of urine, a deterioration in the digestion process, skin rashes, tachycardia.

Medicinal cleaning products

Currently, you can buy all kinds of medications for colon cleansing in retail pharmacy chains. Among the most popular drugs are the following.

Fortrans

An effective medicine for cleaning the rectum. Used in the preparatory period before an upcoming operation or study. The active substance is macrogol, which is capable of retaining moisture. Additional components are salts that maintain electrolyte balance.

The drug is produced in the form of a powder, packaged in small bags. Dose is calculated as follows: 1 packet per 20 kg of body weight is diluted in one liter of water. It is necessary to consume the Fortrans solution every 20 minutes, 200 g each. The effect occurs 5 hours after use.

Lavacol

It is analogous to fortrans, inexpensive remedy, active substance which is a macrogol, capable of accelerating colon emptying. Dosage is: one packet per 5 kg of weight. The powder is dissolved in 200 g of water. The solution must be drunk within 4 hours. If nausea and gag reflexes occur, the procedure must be canceled and resumed after 30 minutes.

Activated carbon

Quite popular and cheap remedy to clean the entire system. Charcoal is able to bind toxins in the organ and remove them naturally . The tablets also showed excellent results against radionuclides. Use charcoal in a dosage of 1 tablet per 10 kg of weight, 2 times a day, for several days.

Magnesia

Magnesium sulfate is a fast-acting substance that can start the process of emptying by contracting the walls of the organ. The drug is considered safe, but the cleaning process requires preliminary preparation.

3 days before the procedure must be excluded from the diet harmful products, salty, spicy, fried foods, reduce the amount of sugar and salt. Magnesia effectively removes contents from all parts of the intestinal system. One sachet is diluted with water in a ratio of 20 g per 100 ml of water and consumed in morning time. The result can be felt 60 minutes after administration, the effect can last up to 24 hours.

Mild laxative

Despite their high effectiveness, drugs can leave behind unpleasant consequences, destroying the microflora of internal organs. The list of mild laxatives includes the following.

Duphalac

Available in the form of syrup or powder, which contains lactulose, which is an osmotic drug. This mild laxative for cleansing the intestines is active against the contents of the colon, does not provoke dysbacteriosis, and has a positive effect on the intestinal microflora.

The dosage is calculated individually. For one-time cleansing, you need to dissolve a glass of syrup in 3 liters of water. This solution is taken for 6-7 hours, with short breaks. Not recommended for people suffering from galactosemia, hypersensitivity to lactose, fructose, or lactase deficiency.

Castor oil

Famous folk remedy for cleaning small intestine. Before cleansing, avoid eating food 5-6 hours before, as well as 8 hours after the process. The dose is calculated: 1 g of oil per 1 kg of body weight. Best effect achieved at joint use With lemon juice . The oil must be drunk in one gulp, washed down with double the amount of lemon juice. Results usually occur within 2 hours and last all day.

To clean the rectum, both dried leaves of the plant and medicines in tablets are used.: "Senadexin" or "Senade".

Tablets are used 1 piece per day for 3 days.

You can prepare an infusion from the leaves: a glass of boiling water for 1 tablespoon of leaves.

The composition is boiled for 5-7 minutes, cooled, strained and drunk for 1 week.

Polysorb

Mild laxative belonging to enterosorbents. Sold in powder form, which is diluted with water. The dosage is determined based on the weight and age of the patient, for example, for a patient weighing 60-70 kg, it is necessary to dissolve 1 tablespoon of the drug in 100 ml of water.

Colon cleansing products

Many berries and fruits have the ability to weaken and activate the process of bowel movement. The following have a similar effect:

• melon;
• apples;
• rowan;
• figs;
• grape;
• banana;
• apricots;
• dried apricot;
• prunes.

Vegetables that contain plant fibers and can improve organ motility successfully stimulate the gastrointestinal tract:

• beet;
• cabbage;
• carrot;
• pumpkin.

Cucumbers consumed on an empty stomach in the morning, as well as fresh cabbage, have a weakening effect.

To get rid of constipation, take 100 g of grated raw beets a quarter of an hour before meals. You can also regularly drink kvass, yogurt, potato juice, table wine, yogurt.

Kefir has a laxative effect when used in fresh . Millet porridge with pumpkin pieces, rolled oats, bran, green peas, honey, seaweed, vinaigrette, chocolate.

Stimulates plant emptying and olive oil: To cleanse, drink 10 g of oil daily in the morning on an empty stomach. In addition, it is an excellent colon cleanser. cabbage pickle and rowan tincture.

Oil for constipation

Many people face the problem of bowel movements, which can be eliminated with the help of oil. This product is mineral or plant origin softens stool and reduces its friction with the mucous membrane:

1. Castor oil. The medicine is obtained from castor beans and has been popular since the times of Ancient Egypt. Its action is to soften feces and prevent fluid absorption. When taking the oil orally, its effectiveness will be noticeable 2-6 hours after consumption, so it is best to take it in the morning.
2. Linseed oil. Omega acids and vitamins contained in the product have a beneficial effect on work gastrointestinal tract. The product is used for quick treatment constipation, and to combat chronic illness. To empty your intestines, you need to drink 1 tbsp in the morning on an empty stomach. l. oil an hour before meals, with a glass cold water. You can also mix 1 tbsp. l. medicine with ½ glass of cold milk and drink the mixture before going to bed.
3. Olive oil. The drug relieves bloating and relieves irritation of the mucous membrane. To do this you need to drink 1-2 tbsp. l. oil on an empty stomach in the morning, but you should not drink it with water or other drinks for an hour after taking it.
4. Mineral oil. This clear liquid artificial origin odorless, eliminates constipation. A strong laxative at home prevents fluid absorption and softens the consistency of stool. The effect of its use occurs after 8 hours, so it is recommended to drink the oil before bed.
5. Vaseline oil. The product is evenly distributed over the intestinal walls, creating a protective barrier. It improves peristalsis of the digestive tract and softens stool, making it easier to empty. The product is taken 2 tsp. 2 hours before or after meals. With a low laxative effect, the dosage is increased to 2 tbsp. l.

Oils effectively combat bloating, hard stools and constipation. But these drugs are prohibited from being used by people with individual intolerance to avoid an allergic reaction.

Flax seeds

Flax, known for its anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, is often used in the treatment of many diseases. The seeds are often used to cleanse the intestines at home. The seeds are ground into powder and added to 200 g of low-fat kefir.. The resulting drink is drunk before bedtime.

Salad "Pastel"

To prepare the salad, you need to grate beets, turnips, radishes, carrots, fresh cabbage, and celery in equal proportions.

This salad got its name due to its ability to quickly remove all contents from the intestines..

Herbal infusions and decoctions

Plants that can be found in any pharmacy perfectly cleanse the intestines. This the method is ideal for those who suffer from constipation. Here are some effective recipes:

1. Into a glass warm water add 1 tbsp. l. buckthorn bark or senna leaves. Everything is thoroughly mixed and set aside for 20 minutes in a water bath. After this time, the liquid is drained and the sediment is squeezed out. The resulting medicine is added boiled water warm until you get a glass of drink. The decoction is divided into two doses and should be drunk in the morning and evening. The infusion is taken once, because the herbs are addictive.
2. Pour 2 tsp into a glass of boiling water. dry dandelion leaves and infuse for 10 minutes. This plant can be replaced with nettle or licorice, they all have laxative properties. The solution should be consumed three times a day. To this natural medicine The body does not get used to it, so it can be used both once and on an ongoing basis.
3. Pour 1 tsp into a glass of boiling water. crushed yarrow, dry or fresh. The decoction should sit for 50 minutes. Reception is carried out 3-4 times in knocks of 80 ml.
4. Horse sorrel roots are added to 500 ml of boiling water, and the mixture is sent to a steam bath for 10 minutes. For a laxative effect, you need to drink a glass of medicine before bed.
5. 10 g of plantain seeds are poured into 125 ml of boiling water. The infusion is infused for 10 minutes, after which it is consumed in one gulp before meals.
6. Burdock root and fresh plantain leaves are taken in equal proportions. Plants must be washed and placed in a container with warm water and simmer for 20 minutes over low heat. After complete cooling and straining, you need to take the solution three times a day, ½ cup before meals.

Recovery after cleansing

Prebiotics based on herbal ingredients will help effectively restore the intestines after laxatives.

After the cleansing procedure, you should adhere to a special diet, excluding harmful products, containing beneficial microelements and fiber.

In addition, to prevent constipation, you should drink a lot clean water and regularly massage your stomach before meals.

Get things going digestive system will help active image life, including daily hiking, as well as physical exercises aimed at strengthening the abdominal muscles.

A malfunction of the digestive system provokes chronic stress. To prevent gastrointestinal disorders, you should avoid stressful situations and be able to relax.

The best laxative for cleansing the intestines is natural. Herbal preparations have a mild effect and are effective in the upper areas of the intestinal system. To prevent constipation and restore the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, patients should include fresh vegetables and fruits in their diet, which ensure smooth functioning of the stomach and natural bowel movement. These products help enrich the body essential vitamins and natural sugars. In addition, the daily diet should consist of foods containing vitamin B, which improves the tone of the intestinal muscles. The vitamin is included in egg yolks, green vegetables, wheat, rye bread, almonds, brewer's yeast, beets, soybeans, barley and others.

Accept laxatives for constipation- the easiest way to induce a bowel movement. However, this option for dealing with the absence of bowel movements is not always correct and has many contraindications.

Laxatives for constipation: pros and cons

Laxatives can be purchased at any pharmacy. And despite the fact that they have many prohibitions on their use, they are sold to everyone without a prescription.

Medicinal laxatives have the only advantage - they help to quickly cope with the absence of bowel movements, which is important when long-term constipation. Thanks to them, it is possible to prevent bad bowel movements that occur on the 3rd–4th day. But it is better not to get carried away with laxatives and drink them only as prescribed by a doctor. The problem is that with frequent use, a person develops dependence and the intestines refuse natural emptying.

The main disadvantage of these tools is that they provide a one-time solution to the problem that has arisen. They perfectly cleanse the intestines of accumulated feces, but do not eliminate the main problem that caused constipation. Therefore, after using them, difficulties with bowel movements will still arise.

Many people think laxatives are harmless and safe, but this is not true. Even if they are made on the basis of herbal ingredients, experts still do not recommend taking them every time there is stool retention.

The constant use of laxatives does not actually help solve the problem with bowel movements, but only worsens it. The intestines quickly get used to artificial stimulation and over time refuse to work on their own. Constipation becomes more severe and it becomes impossible to go to the toilet without medication.

Treatment of constipation should be carried out comprehensively. The emphasis is on eliminating the underlying problem that causes defecation delay. Laxatives are only a means to temporarily relieve symptoms.

Types of laxatives

Today, pharmacies sell dozens of various drugs to combat constipation. Most of them are long outdated, but still continue to enjoy wide popularity. This is explained by their moderate cost and repeatedly proven results. But there are remedies that belong to a new generation of drugs for stool retention. They have a safer composition and a minimum of contraindications.

Laxatives are divided into the following types:

• by force of action;
• by mechanism of action;
• by localization of action.

Each group of medications has its own pros and cons, and also differs in speed of action and prohibitions on use. Let's look at the types of laxatives in a little more detail.

Irritating intestinal motility

Perhaps the most best laxatives for constipation with many years of application experience. They belong to the older generation of drugs, and their action is aimed at artificially activating intestinal motility.

These products contain natural substances isolated from plants that affect intestinal function. The most famous of these herbs are:

• alder buckthorn;
• marshmallow;
• senna leaves;
• zoster laxative, etc.

Infusions, decoctions, tablets and drops are made from the medicinal components of these plants to help induce the process of bowel movement.

Among them are the following known medications for constipation:

1. Guttalax.
2. Dulcolax.
3. Senade.
4. Regulax.

Laxatives that irritate peristalsis are prescribed exclusively for one-time (episodic) problems with bowel movements. If constipation is chronic, then taking such medications can only cause harm. It is also not recommended to take these medications if you have not had a bowel movement for several days in a row.

The dosage of older generation laxatives is determined by the doctor. The duration of treatment should not exceed three days. Otherwise, the patient becomes addicted and constipation becomes more persistent. In addition, drugs with an irritating effect, when used systematically, impair the absorption of the intestinal walls and provoke various kinds of pathological processes.

Osmotic

The action of this group of laxatives is aimed at retaining fluid in the intestines, thereby creating osmotic pressure. Such products liquefy accumulated feces and allow them to pass freely.

This kind of anti-constipation remedy is recommended to be taken in case of medicinal or food poisoning. They are known for being quickly and effectively eliminated from the body. toxic substances. They are also often prescribed to cleanse the intestines for diagnostic procedures gastrointestinal organs, for example, ultrasound of the abdominal cavity.

Unlike irritating laxatives, osmotic drugs do not cause intestinal addiction, so they can be taken for a long time, but not longer three months. Otherwise, a person will develop electrolyte imbalances, which will negatively affect the functioning of the cardiac and vascular system.

Probiotic remedies for intestinal stagnation

These medications are slow-acting laxatives. They are among the most safe means against constipation, so they can be taken after childbirth and during breastfeeding.

The composition includes food components that, after consumption, reach lower sections gastrointestinal tract in undigested form. They have a beneficial effect on the growth of beneficial intestinal microflora and restore bacterial balance.

Probiotics are prescribed for both chronic problems with bowel movements. These drugs are not addictive, so they can be taken long time. In the first days, patients often experience a side effect in the form of flatulence, but it goes away quite quickly.

Among the most famous prebiotics are:

1. Prelax.
2. Lactusan.
3. Duphalac.
4. Lactobacterin.

Slow-acting laxatives cause bowel movements due to the growth of beneficial bacteria and restoration of intestinal microflora. All this over time creates osmotic pressure and stimulates a reduction in peristalsis. Defecation after taking prebiotics can be expected within 1.5–2 hours.

Bulk (filler) laxatives

Bulk enteric fillers come in two types: natural and synthetic. They are made on the basis of indigestible components. Such laxatives are not absorbed by the intestines and promote rapid excretion of stool by softening and increasing its volume.

The main components of intestinal laxatives are:

• flax seeds;
• bran;
• seaweed;
• methylcellulose;
• agar-agar;
• flower seeds, etc.

When taking bulk laxatives, you need to drink plenty of water per day. Without required liquid the drugs will not bring the desired result. The product has a slow effect and, if used correctly, the first effect occurs after 12 hours.

These drugs are prescribed for mild constipation and are not recommended for people who are predisposed to bloating. There is no point in treating acute absence of bowel movements with these remedies, since in this case they will not help.

Which laxative should I choose if I have no stool?

When buying tablets at a pharmacy, you should definitely find out which group of laxatives they belong to. The most harmful drugs for the intestines are irritating drugs. It is better to take these medications only as prescribed by a doctor, or it is better to avoid them altogether.

Remember that the laxative must not only be effective, but also safe. Before using any product, you should carefully read the instructions, especially the section on contraindications and side effects.

For chronic constipation, probiotics are best. They not only stimulate peristalsis, but also restore intestinal microflora. In addition, these drugs do not cause lazy bowel syndrome, so you can drink them for quite a long time. Systematic use of probiotics allows you to achieve sustainable results and forget about problems with bowel movements for a long time.

It is better not to take quick laxatives for constipation. They have many contraindications and when used for more than three days, they become addictive. In addition, such drugs can provoke a number of side effects, namely:

• severe intestinal upset;
• colitis;
• prolonged diarrhea, alternating with difficulty passing stool;
• dehydration;
• electrolyte imbalance;
• pain in the abdomen, permanent;
• intestinal atony.

It must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. Instead of a one-time immediate effect, it is better to achieve restoration of intestinal function gradually. The use of laxatives should be replaced special diet and, but not more than once a week. It is also important to focus on eliminating the underlying cause that led to problems with bowel movements.

Laxatives for the elderly

Based on medical statistics, older people most often suffer from constipation. The reasons for this are a sedentary lifestyle, poor nutrition, deterioration of the gastrointestinal tract and taking diuretics. The latter is often prescribed to the elderly suffering from heart disease and high blood pressure.

Treatment must be approached with full responsibility. It is best if a doctor prescribes a remedy for restoring stool. Such patients are most often exposed to side effects and have many contraindications.

The most common laxatives for the elderly are:

1. Forlax. The product perfectly restores the functioning of intestinal motility. But you can take it only as prescribed by a doctor. The fact is that this laxative needs a large amount of liquid, so it has a “washing out” effect. It is not recommended for people with heart problems.
2. Guttalax. The drug has a mild, gradual effect and is absolutely safe. It can be used not only by the elderly, but also by children, as well as pregnant women. The process of defecation after taking it occurs within 12 hours, so it is recommended to drink it before bed. At frequent use Guttalax is addictive. In this case, the medicine stops helping.
3. Dibrolax. The drug is a laxative that irritates peristalsis, but is not addictive. However therapeutic effect it also does not possess and brings only one-time relief.
4. Prelax. It is allowed to be taken by both old people and newborns. The drug is a safe laxative long acting. It is not addictive. In addition, the product normalizes the digestion and absorption of food, and also restores intestinal function.

If you have frequent problems with bowel movements, it is best, instead of taking laxatives, to adjust and adhere to drinking regime. Figs are a great help in the fight against constipation. boiled beets, fermented milk products and freshly squeezed vegetable juices.

What should you pay attention to?

Buy laxatives for constipation for the elderly must be done with extreme caution. All drugs that help restore stool are unsafe for such patients.

Laxatives with an irritating effect wash out a large amount of electrolytes from the body, which are responsible for water-salt balance and metabolism. Particular care should be taken when using products that contain hay. Such medications are harmful to the elderly because they cause chronic pain in the lower abdomen and cause discomfort.

Bulk laxatives are not recommended for people undergoing ongoing treatment for heart disease. They reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants, antibiotics and glycosides. In addition, these drugs are more likely than others to cause side effects such as bloating and flatulence.

Means classified as emollient laxatives can lead to dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract. While taking them, elderly patients often experience deterioration in food digestion and poor absorption nutrients.

The most suitable laxatives for older people are probiotics. They do not have an immediate effect, but they normalize the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and restore the intestinal microflora.

What can you give your child for constipation?

Not all laxatives are allowed to be used for treatment. Therefore, before treating your child, it is better to consult a pediatrician.

Laxatives for constipation for children are distinguished by the method of their use:

• suppositories (candles);
• syrups;
• pills;
• soluble powders.

The appropriate remedy is prescribed for each child purely individually. Most often these are candles, since oral medications Children usually refuse to drink. Especially when it comes to newborns and children under 5 years old.

When choosing a laxative for a child, you need to pay attention to the following nuances:

• the product must be digested and completely absorbed into the large intestine;
• the drug should not interfere with the absorption of salts and dehydrate the body;
• It is not recommended to buy products with an irritating effect for children (only mild ones).

Considered the safest rectal suppositories on oil based and with components medicinal herbs. They can be used even by children under one year old.

But before you start giving your child laxatives, you should definitely consult a doctor.

Contraindications

All drugs that eliminate stagnation in the intestines have their contraindications. Rapid-acting laxatives are especially dangerous for constipation. They are not recommended for use in case of a number of diseases, as well as existing characteristics of the body.

Let's look at the example in the table below.

Means	Contraindications	Children	Pregnant
Irritant laxatives.	pathology of the rectum; chronic constipation; haemorrhoids; intestinal spasms; inflammation of the bladder; acute gastrointestinal diseases; uterine bleeding; heart disease; hypertension; kidney pathology.	Not recommended. It is prohibited to give such products to children under one year of age.	Prohibited at any stage of pregnancy.
Prebiotics	Lactic sugar intolerance.	Can be used for children of any age.	There are no restrictions.
Osmolytics.	heart failure; kidney problems; hypertension; arrhythmias.	Not recommended	Not recommended
Volumetric	—	It is forbidden to give to newborns. Use with caution in adult children.	It is forbidden.
Any laxatives.	intestinal obstruction; individual obstruction.	On doctor's recommendation.	All laxatives are prohibited, except prebiotics.

Before you start treating constipation with laxatives, you should carefully read the instruction leaflet. Before purchasing any product, you should immediately check with your pharmacist which group it belongs to. And it is best not to self-medicate, but to seek help from a doctor.

Folk remedies against constipation at home

If the causes of constipation are not diseases of the gastrointestinal tract or pathological processes in the intestine itself, then treatment is best carried out with laxatives of traditional medicine. Moreover, most doctors recommend this type of therapy and do not advise accustoming yourself to pharmaceutical drugs to restore stool.

Laxatives for constipation at home you can do it yourself. When choosing herbal ingredients, it is important to consider personal intolerances.

Phytotherapy

This type of traditional medicine offers relief from intestinal stagnation with the help of decoctions and. If constipation manifests itself, then it is necessary to choose herbs that have an antispasmodic and sedative effect.

The most suitable fees would be:

1. Dried dill seeds, lemon balm, mistletoe, shamrock, dandelion, valerian and rhubarb root.
2. Peppermint, valerian root, nettle, chamomile, horse sorrel, buckthorn bark, strawberries and anise.
3. Wormwood, black elderberry inflorescence, flax seeds, coriander, wild rue, centaury, burdock.

To eliminate, plants that stimulate intestinal motility are needed. Infusions of the following herbal infusions would be suitable:

1. Wild hops, dill seeds, black elderberry flowers, dandelion root, wormwood, mistletoe, centaury.
2. Oregano, licorice, black elderberry, immortelle, elecampane root, burdock, lemon balm and bud.
3. Fennel fruits, thistle, chamomile, spearmint, rhubarb, toadflax, tansy baskets.
;

Useful foods for constipation are:



It is also important to monitor if you have difficulty defecating. By constantly drinking enough frequent water a day, you can not only get rid of stagnation in the intestines, but prevent its reappearance.

In order to choose the most effective drug that will help get rid of this sensitive issue, it is necessary to find out the cause of its occurrence.

When choosing a product, you should pay attention to the following points:

• drug tolerability, side effects;
• estimated time of defecation after taking it;
• the product should not be addictive.

Which laxative is best for constipation depends on the cause that caused it:

Important to remember! Before choosing a specific laxative, you should consult a specialist! It will help identify the cause of constipation, thereby choosing the most effective drug.

The best laxatives with osmotic action

The mechanism of action of this group of drugs is aimed at increasing osmatic pressure in the intestine. They retain water that enters the rectum, thereby helping to soften stool and increase its volume. Osmotic drugs are suitable for long-term use, but should not be used for more than 3 months. Let's look at the most effective drugs in this group.

Forlax

This medicinal product is available as a powder for the preparation medicinal solution. The sachets have a volume of 10 g and 4 g for adults and children, respectively. Daily dose the drug for an adult is 2 sachets, which should be dissolved in 50 ml of purified water.

Take 1 sachet morning and evening. As for children, they need to take 1 sachet of Forlax, diluted with water. A child over 8 years old should be given 4 sachets per day.

The main contraindications to the use of Forlax are:

• intestinal perforation;
• individual intolerance or high sensitivity to the components of the drug;
• intestinal obstruction;
• inflammatory diseases of the rectum.

The disadvantage of this medication is that it can cause bloating and nausea. As for the advantages, it has increased efficiency for constipation by increasing and diluting stool.

The cost of the drug varies within 280 rubles.

Lavacol

Given drug Available in the form of a substance for preparing a solution. 1 sachet contains 14 g of powder. Its effect is to increase the volume of feces, thereby improving intestinal motility.

To eliminate constipation, you need to consume 1 sachet dissolved in 1 glass of purified water. After a couple of hours, you already feel the urge to defecate. If a person still does not go to the toilet, then the medicine should be taken again.

Contraindications to the use of Lavacol:

• intestinal obstruction;
• toxic dilatation of the rectum;
• narrowing of the lumen of the stomach;
• stomach or duodenal ulcer;
• dysfunction of the renal system;
• dehydration of the body;
• age under 15 years.

The disadvantage of this medicine is that it is not suitable for long-term use. But, nevertheless, it has high efficiency when fighting constipation.

The average price for Lavacol in Russia is 180 rubles.

Irritant medications for colon cleansing with quick results

Medicines in this group are usually produced on the basis natural ingredients. The principle of their action is to irritate the nerve fibers of the intestines.

As a result, there is an improvement in peristalsis, resulting in more active movement of feces.

Bisacodyl

This drug is available in several forms, namely: pills, suppositories, tablets. How to use them:

1. Dragees and tablets. They should be taken orally 2 times a day 30 minutes before meals, 1-3 tablets, washed down with plenty of purified water. In children under 7 years of age - no more than 1 tablet 2 times a day, up to 14 years of age - 1-2 tablets or tablets.
2. Rectal suppositories. Insert 1-2 suppositories per day into the anus. Children under 7 years old should use 0.5 candles, children under 14 years old should use 1 candle.

Bisacodyl is contraindicated in the following cases:

• intestinal obstruction;
• hypersensitivity to the components of the drug;
• spicy inflammatory diseases digestive system;
• peritonitis;
• cystitis;
• constipation caused by cramps;
• hemorrhoids during exacerbation;
• age up to 2 years.

Bisacodyl is one of the most effective drugs against constipation It quickly acts on the intestines, improving peristalsis. The disadvantage of using this remedy is that it can cause diarrhea.

You can buy Bisacodyl for an average of 40 rubles.

Guttalax

This is one of the most popular laxatives that irritate the intestines. It is produced in the form of drops for internal use. For an adult, the dosage is 10-20 drops per day. The child should take 5-10 drops. To normalize bowel movements, it is better to take the drug at night.

Guttalax should not be used to treat constipation in the following cases:

• intestinal obstruction;
• exacerbation of gastrointestinal diseases;
• intestinal diseases caused by inflammatory processes;
• nausea with vomiting.

In other cases, Guttalax helps get rid of constipation within a few hours after taking it. This drug should be used according to the instructions for use. Since its overdose can cause severe pain in the abdomen, vomiting and dizziness.

You can purchase Guttalax drops at: average price 200 rub.

Effective prebiotics

Medicines in this group are aimed at normalizing intestinal microflora. They have a complex effect.

In addition to restoring the balance of bacteria, they provide osmotic pressure and stimulate peristalsis.

Duphalac

The drug is a viscous syrup for oral use. To eliminate problems with bowel movements, you should take the syrup for 2 days. The dosage for an adult is up to 45 ml. In childhood, you should drink Duphalac no more than 10 ml per day.

Duphalac has virtually no restrictions on use. The only contraindication is intestinal obstruction. In other cases, it is an effective and safe laxative. It can even be used to treat constipation in pregnant women and nursing mothers.

You can buy Duphalac in pharmacies for about 800 rubles.

Normaze

This medicine is sold in syrup form. The active substance is lactulose. In order to get rid of constipation, you need to take up to 25 ml per day. As for children, their maximum dosage is 10-15 ml.

Using Normaze to combat constipation is prohibited in the following cases:

• bleeding from the anus not caused by hemorrhoids;
• intestinal obstruction;
• appendicitis;
• individual intolerance to galactose and fructose;
• colostomy

The advantage of this drug is that it can be used to treat constipation in children. infancy. As for the disadvantages, Normaze in some cases causes nausea and diarrhea.

The cost of Normaze in pharmacies averages 280 rubles.

Natural fillers

These products are produced on the basis natural ingredients. The essence of their action is to increase the volume of feces, resulting in increased pressure in the intestines.

Mukofalk

This laxative drug comes in the form of granules for preparing a solution. To combat constipation, take 1 tsp. granules 4-6 times a day. They need to be dissolved in 1 glass of water.

Mucofalk should not be used in the following cases:

• age up to 12 years;
• intestinal obstruction;
• diabetes mellitus in the stage of decompensation.

The advantage of this medicine is its natural base. As for the disadvantages, children cannot be treated with Mucofalk.

The cost of the drug is approximately 570 rubles.

Citrucel

This is a medicine that helps increase stool mass. Citrucel is available in capsule form. To treat constipation, take 2 capsules per day.

Citrucel is contraindicated:

• diabetes mellitus;
• age up to 15 years;
• intestinal obstruction.

You can buy Citrucel for about 700 rubles.

Which of the presented medications should I choose?

Laxative - which one is better? In order to answer this question, it is better to contact a specialist. Because it is necessary to identify the cause of the development of this ailment. Depending on this factor, a laxative drug is selected.

Modern pharmacology offers many laxatives various groups. Therefore, making the right choice will not be difficult, even considering their cost.

Constipation is a controversial condition, despite the fact that 30 to 50 percent of adults and 5 to 20 percent of children experience this problem. World organization Health considers slow, difficult or insufficient bowel movement a disease, as evidenced by the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Health Problems.

At the same time, international gastroenterological organizations and gastroenterological associations identify constipation as a symptom of various diseases. The same position is typical for domestic medicine. The classification of problems with defecation as a symptom also determines the nature of their elimination: in gastroenterology, the main step in the fight against constipation is to eliminate the causes of their occurrence. But along with this, in most cases, quick and effective therapy, aimed at normalizing stool, which is carried out with the help of medications belonging to a large group - laxatives.

Characteristics of laxatives

Laxatives are medications that are used solely to relieve constipation. In general, the mechanism of their action can be divided into two directions:

• strengthening the wave-like contraction of the colon (peristalsis) to accelerate the removal of its contents to the outlet;
• inhibition of the processes of reabsorption of water in the large intestine.

The history of the development of laxatives began with herbal remedies, which included anthraglycosides. Over time, salt and synthetic preparations were created, which were not always effective and safe to use. But now pharmacology has gone far ahead, enemas, syrups and tablets for constipation have become more advanced and we will consider them in as much detail as possible.

Classification of laxatives

According to international system classifications medicines, laxatives are divided into six groups:

• emollient drugs;
• osmotic laxatives;
• laxatives, which increase the volume of intestinal contents;
• laxatives in the form of enemas and suppositories;
• contact (irritant) laxatives;
• other laxatives.

Let's look at each of the groups in more detail.

Laxatives with emollient action (plasticizers)

Main drugs of the group	Liquid paraffin (Vaseline oil) (from 45 rub.); Norgalax (docusate sodium) (from 80 rub.); Glycerin (from 136 rub.); Almond oil (from 63 rub.);
Mechanism of action	Emollient laxatives have an effect at the level of the small intestine. The result of their work is the softening of feces, stimulation of peristalsis, reducing the absorption of fluid by the intestinal walls, and facilitating the sliding of feces to the outlet.
Indications for use	Prescribed to people who cannot push (women after childbirth, people after operations), patients with coprostasis (obstruction of the large intestine). Also, drugs in this group are recommended for various poisonings and in preparation for diagnostic procedures.
Contraindications	Emollient laxatives should not be used by pregnant women, children under 12 years of age, or people with chronic constipation, hemorrhoids, kidney diseases, uterine and intestinal hemorrhages.
Side effects	Possible decrease in defecation reflexes, inflammation of the rectal mucosa, malignant neoplasms intestines

Osmotic laxatives

Main drugs of the group	There are three subgroups of osmotic laxatives: salt preparations: Sodium sulfate (from 19 rubles), Magnesium sulfate (from 23 rubles), Carlsbad salt, Magnesium hydroxide indigestible carbohydrates - prebiotics: Lactulose (from 202 rub.), Inulin (from 82 rub.), Duphalac (from 248 rub.), Prelax (from 161 rub.), Normaze (from 257 rub.) Macrogol and its analogues: Forlax (from 152 rubles), Endofalk (from 462 rubles), Fortrans (from 118 rubles).
Mechanism of action	Saline laxatives act throughout the intestine, increasing the osmotic pressure in its lumen. This action attracts fluid from plasma and fat tissue into the intestines, which leads to softening of the stool. Prebiotics have an effect on the colon. When they are bacterially fermented in the colon, the acidity in this area increases, which leads to an increase in volume and softening of the stool. Macrogol stimulates the hydration process, equalizing the volume of the colon and its contents. Does not affect the intestinal microflora and does not irritate it.
Indications for use	Osmotic laxatives are prescribed for various types poisoning, in preparation for laboratory tests and surgical intervention, for acute and chronic constipation.
Contraindications	The salt subgroup of laxatives is contraindicated for children, pregnant women and women during lactation. Also, saline laxatives should not be used for heart failure. Prebiotics and Macrogol have virtually no contraindications. They are most often prescribed for constipation in children.
Side effects	Salt preparations can cause uncontrollable laxative effects, dehydration, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Taking prebiotics is often accompanied by flatulence, and Macrogol can cause diarrhea and minor abdominal pain.

Bulk laxatives

Main drugs of the group	Sea kale (from 63 rub.); Flax seeds (from 50 rub.); Figs (from 122 rub.); Psyllium seed husk (from 90 rub.); Mukofalk (from 504 rub.).
Mechanism of action	This group of laxatives is based on components that are not digested in the intestines. In fact, they expand the volume of the rectum while retaining water, which leads to a reflex acceleration of bowel movements. Taking the drugs themselves should be accompanied by simultaneous use large quantity liquids - up to one and a half liters.
Indications for use	Prescribed for chronic constipation, people who cannot push (postpartum and postoperative periods), patients with irritable bowel syndrome.
Contraindications	Presence of allergies to drug components.
Side effects	Taking bulk laxatives may be accompanied by bloating, minor pain, and a feeling of fullness in the colon. They are considered the safest group of laxatives.

Laxatives in the form of enemas and suppositories

Main drugs of the group	Norgalax (from 80 rub.); Bisacodyl in suppositories (from 25 rubles); Glycerol (from 90 rub.); Microlax (from RUB 346).
Mechanism of action	They have a local effect on the rectum, softening feces and increasing their volume.
Indications for use	Appointed before laboratory research, in the postpartum and postoperative periods, as well as with occasional constipation.
Contraindications	Remedies for constipation in the form of enemas and suppositories are contraindicated in uterine bleeding, with exacerbation of hemorrhoids, with inflammatory processes in the colon and with cracks in the anus.
Side effects	When used short-term, laxatives of this group have no side effects. Long-term use may be accompanied by pain and itching in the anus, inflammation of the rectum, and diarrhea.

Contact (irritant) laxatives

Main drugs of the group	Castor oil (from 53 rub.); Rhubarb root (from 160 rub.); Bisacodyl (from 45 rub.); Joster fruits; Guttalax (from 230 rub.); Fitolax in form chewable tablets(from 195 rub.).
Mechanism of action	Drugs in this group have an irritating effect on the mucous membrane and nerve endings in the colon, thereby stimulating the process of peristalsis. Also, contact laxatives prevent the process of absorption of fluid from the intestines, preventing stool from hardening.
Indications for use	Prescribed mainly for acute constipation.
Contraindications	Not prescribed for children and the elderly, as well as patients with limited mobility due to the unpredictable course of the laxative effect. In addition, most drugs in this group have individual contraindications, and their long-term use absolutely not recommended.
Side effects	Dysbacteriosis, dehydration, addiction.

Other laxatives

Other laxatives include mainly combination drugs. Their characteristics, indications and contraindications, as well as the list of side effects depend on the components that are included in each specific drug. The most common anti-constipation pills in this group are:

The nuances of using laxatives

Quite often, people believe that laxative medications for constipation are absolutely harmless and easy to use, and prescribe them to themselves without consulting a doctor. This is fundamentally wrong. Most laxatives have a significant list of contraindications, without which a person exposes himself to serious danger.
In addition, the use of medications for constipation is quite often addictive, so modern medical protocols involve combining various laxatives with short term application of each of them.

When choosing a remedy to combat constipation, you need to remember that microenemas and suppositories will bring the fastest effect, and chronic constipation is best dealt with using prebiotic drugs, which are most often found in the form of anti-constipation tablets. In addition to normalizing stool, they stimulate intestinal function and have a positive effect on microflora, with virtually no contraindications.

You should take laxatives before going to bed. Most medications in this direction begin to act after 6-12 hours, so the expected effect will be observed in the morning. In addition, after taking laxatives, you should plan your time in such a way as to stay at home during the day. This will avoid many unpleasant situations.

Traditional methods of dealing with constipation

Considering the types of laxatives, it can be noted that many of them are based on herbal components that have laxative functions. They are also widely used in folk medicine for constipation.
There are also a number of effective traditional methods prevention and control of constipation, which is very easy to use, does not require any complex components and is an important part healthy image life. Let's consider them:

• After waking up, you should regularly drink at least a glass of clean water at room temperature, and postpone eating for half an hour after that. Water will cleanse the stomach and prepare it for the digestion process;
• Regular consumption of cabbage, prunes, beets, and other raw vegetables and fruits in sufficient quantities is the key to the absence of constipation and normal functioning intestines;
• Before going to bed, it is useful to drink a glass of kefir. It is very easy to pickle and allows the intestines to prepare for the new day without overload;
• If it was not possible to avoid constipation, then castor oil will help to quickly overcome it. 30 g of oil once a day for three days normalizes stool, and the first effect of taking it will appear after 2-8 hours. This drug is considered one of the most effective, fast-acting and inexpensive, which is why it is perhaps the most popular;
• If you are constipated, you need to drink plenty of fluids. One and a half to two liters of water, drunk at a time, will make the stool softer and allow you to overcome the problem without serious therapy.

But the main thing with constipation is to eliminate the cause that disrupted intestinal function. Having correctly identified the prerequisites and gotten rid of them, constipation will go away without a trace, and you will forget about this problem for a long time.