Osmotic laxative. Are there any contraindications? Natural laxatives of plant origin

Each of us at least once in our lives has encountered such a delicate problem as constipation. And if the illness is prolonged, then you are faced with choosing a remedy for treatment.

What to choose so that addiction does not develop and our intestines do not become lazy?

From this article we will learn which harmless laxatives are not addictive, which means they will be safe and suitable for long-term use if necessary.

How do osmotic drugs work?

First, let's figure out what it is? Osmotic agents retain water, increasing intestinal contents. Thanks to this, feces soften, swell, and peristalsis increases.

They are not addictive because they do not irritate the intestines. Therefore, the safest laxatives in this group can be used for quite a long time without harm to health.

Modern non-addictive laxatives

Typically available in several forms:

• pills;
• drops;
• syrups;
• candles.

Let's take a closer look at each of them.

Pills

They are easy to use and do not cause physical or psychological discomfort, because all you need is a little water to wash them down. What can you find at the pharmacy?

Drops

This form of release is convenient for those who have difficulty swallowing tablets. Taking them will be no more difficult than just drinking water. What drugs are available in the form of drops?

Guttalax

Contains sodium picosulfate. It begins to act 10-12 hours after administration. Best taken shortly before bedtime. Adults – from 10 to 30 drops. Children over 4 years old – 5-10 drops.

Contraindications:

• abdominal pain;
• strangulated hernia;
• gastrointestinal bleeding;
• acute inflammation of the abdominal cavity;
• constipation caused by spasm;
• dehydration;
• age up to 4 years;
• metrorrhagia;
• cystitis;
• increased sensitivity;
• pregnancy 1st trimester.

Important! During lactation, do not use the drug without consulting your doctor.

The average price for 30 ml is 389 rubles.

Regulax picosulfate

Contains the same active ingredient as Guttalax. But the application scheme is slightly different. Adults – 13-26 drops. Children over 4 years old – 5-8 drops. Since the active substance of these drugs is identical, the contraindications are the same.

Do not use it in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters without consulting a doctor.

On average, the price for 20 ml will be 289 rubles.

You should know that sodium picosulfate drops should not be taken for longer than 14 days without consulting a doctor.

Drops V. Ogarkova Forte

Another remedy for solving delicate problems. Unlike the two previous drugs These drops contain extracts of medicinal plants: rose hips, senna, licorice, nettle leaves, and aloe.

Adults can take 30 drops 3 times daily with meals. Shake well before use as drops will form sediment.

Contraindications:

• intolerance to components;
• pregnancy and lactation;
• tendency to diarrhea;
• acute gastrointestinal disorders.

You can purchase Ogarkov drops for 305 rubles.

Candles

Their main advantage is that they are easy to use, especially in children and the elderly, and, given their local use, their effect on the gastrointestinal tract is eliminated. Let's get acquainted with the drugs in this group.

Bisacodyl

Stimulates the production of mucus, which helps to easily remove feces. Suppositories are inserted deep into the anus 1 time at night. Children under 7 years old – 1/2 suppository; 8-14 years, one candle at night; everyone over 14 years old – 1-2 suppositories.

Using the drug from time to time, you are unlikely to develop addiction, but still taking into account the contraindications characteristic of drugs in this group, among others listed above, Bisacodyl should be avoided if you have:

• proctitis or hemorrhoids in acute form;
• hereditary lactose intolerance - lactase deficiency;
• hypersensitivity;
• glucose/galactose malabsorption syndrome;
• children under 3 years of age.

Attention! Use with caution if you are pregnant or nursing.

Packed in 10 pieces, costs 47-60 rubles.

Glycelax

Contains glycerin, which has a softening effect on feces and also improves motility. 15-20 minutes after breakfast, carefully insert one suppository into the rectum.

Do not use if you have:

• sensitivity to components;
• exacerbation of hemorrhoids;
• inflammation and tumors of the rectum;
• pregnancy.

Should be taken with caution in case of renal failure.

During lactation, consultation with a specialist is necessary.

Can be bought for 117-181 rubles.

Evacue

A gas-forming harmless product that when dissolved, it forms gas bubbles, irritating the receptors of the intestinal mucosa. Contains sodium bicarbonate, potassium bitartrate, polyethylene glycol. Before use, try to relax, otherwise you may damage the mucous membrane.

If you suffer from hemorrhoids, then before use, lubricate the candle with Vaseline, sunflower or olive oil. Try to keep it inside as long as possible, while moving actively, do not sit.

Evacuation vehicles have a high safety profile, because the only contraindication is individual intolerance and age under 12 years. The drug is approved for use even during pregnancy and lactation.

The drug is not cheap, but given its safety, it can justify its cost. It will cost you 500-600 rubles, the package contains 6 suppositories.

Salt

They are useful for acute constipation, and also if you are preparing for diagnostic procedures. They are slowly absorbed, retain water, which leads to easy excretion of feces. Due to its irritating effect, they increase peristalsis. Let's get to know some of them.

Magnesium sulfate

Contains the substance of the same name, packaged in disposable sachets. Take at night or on an empty stomach 30 minutes before meals. Dissolve 10-30 g in 1/2 glass of warm water and drink. You can also do it - dilute 20-30 g in the same volume of water.

Contraindications:

• hypersensitivity;
• appendicitis;
• rectal bleeding (including suspected);
• hypermagnesemia;
• intestinal obstruction;
• dehydration;
• bradycardia;
• renal failure;
• haemorrhoids.

Important! In the case of children, the dosage is 1 g per year of the child’s life, but since the drug has side effects, consult a doctor! Avoid systematic use.

Price 33-50 rubles.

Sodium sulfate

Known as Glauber's salt, it is named after the active substance included in its composition. Dilute 15-30 g of powder in warm water and drink. It is better to take on an empty stomach.

Contraindications for use:

• acute inflammatory diseases of the abdominal cavity;
• stomach and duodenal ulcers;
• ulcerative colitis;
• peritonitis;
• appendicitis;
• menstruation;
• hemorrhoids in the acute stage;
• exhaustion;
• low blood pressure;
• advanced age;
• pregnancy and lactation period.

Finding Glauber's salt is quite difficult, but if you want to use it, you can ask in veterinary stores. A kilogram of salt will cost about 100 rubles.

Carlsbad salt

Mineral geyser salt. Contains sulfate, bicarbonate, sodium chloride and potassium sulfate. It is recommended to use 0.5 g, pre-dissolved in 1/2 glass of water, once, before meals. Should not be taken for more than 3 weeks.

Contraindicated:

• intolerance to components;
• pregnancy and lactation;
• diseases of the cardiovascular system accompanied by edema;
• for kidney problems.

Price from 890 to 1200 rubles per 100g.

Safe traditional recipes

The experience of traditional medicine goes back centuries. Therefore, let's not discount him. Her recipes may be simple, but no less effective, and most often do not have serious contraindications or side effects. You may want to try them before committing to more serious treatments.

Raisin water

Easy to prepare. All we need is a tablespoon of pure raisins and a glass of boiling water.

Brew as tea or leave in a thermos for an hour and the delicious medicine is ready.

Start with a glass a day, adjust the amount as needed.

Beetroot broth

Another no less effective gentle remedy for cleansing the intestines. To prepare it you will need:

• prunes;
• beet;
• cereals.

1. You need to take 100 g of everything, as well as 2 liters of water.
2. Mix everything and cook for about an hour, after peeling the beets and grating them.
3. Strain, cool, and take 200 ml before bed.

Store the finished broth in the refrigerator; it is recommended to warm it up before use.

Kefir with butter

Lovers of fermented milk products can try kefir with butter. To do this, 200 ml of fresh low-fat kefir should be mixed with 1 tsp. vegetable oil and drink before bed.

Although constipation is an unpleasant phenomenon, we have many ways to combat it. Let us remember that it is better to solve the problem comprehensively, without relying only on natural laxatives. Don't forget about your drinking regime and move more, and let your morning be easy!

Stories from our readers

Conquered hemorrhoids at home. It's been a month since I forgot about my bumps. Oh, I tried so many methods - nothing helped. How many times did I go to the doctors, but they prescribed me useless medications over and over again, and when I returned, the doctors recommended surgery. I finally got over my illness, all thanks to this article. Anyone who has hemorrhoids should read it!

Video: how to treat hemorrhoids?

Today there are a large number of laxatives with osmotic action. They all have their own contraindicative measures. Almost all laxatives are not able to cure the very cause of fecal obstruction and do not have a strong therapeutic effect. Such remedies help once, only to solve the problem of constipation. Different solutions, syrups, herbal mixtures and powders have different effects on the gastrointestinal tract.

Many people are interested in the question, how to choose a good osmotic laxative? Some people worry that taking medications regularly will cause addiction. This needs to be dealt with. In order not to let the situation develop until constipation occurs, you need to adhere to certain rules:

• Every morning you need to drink at least one glass of water. Half an hour before meals you can drink mineral water. These manipulations will help cleanse the stomach and improve the functioning of the digestive system.
• Abdominal massage is of great benefit.
• It is necessary to adhere to a proper diet and an active lifestyle.
• Add beets, cabbage, vegetables and fruits to the menu.
• Drink a glass of fermented milk product every day before bed.

If you do experience constipation, try to cure it. When you buy medicine at a pharmacy, base it on its class. To treat the disease, the following are used: osmotic laxatives, drugs with an irritating effect, prebiotics and fillers. Follow some rules:

• Before using the drug, read the instructions carefully.
• Do not use laxatives for a long time.
• It is best to choose prebiotic drugs. This will help activate your intestines.
• For better effect, you can use an enema.

Irritant medications

These are the most effective and fastest-acting medications. They are produced in the form of suppositories, drops, syrups and tablets. Almost all products contain components of plant origin. These mainly include castor oil or rhubarb root. There are drugs of synthetic origin: Guttalax and Bisacodyl. These medications activate peristalsis. After taking the drug, the urge to cleanse accumulated feces will occur within 8 hours.

These medications should not be used systematically, as intestinal depletion may occur. To such means of irritating effect, addiction quickly develops.

Medicines in this class are prohibited for use in acute constipation. You should not take the drug for a long time. It is prohibited to take the drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Refrain from using medications for acute proctitis, hemorrhoids, severe fissures, and various bleeding.

Fitomucil

After the drug gets inside, the soluble fibers will attract all the liquid. As a result, they will increase 10 times in size, forming mucus. It helps soften stool and cleanse the intestines painlessly. Insoluble fiber provides an additional effect. This drug contains plum fruits and plantain seeds. Fitomucil is prescribed for frequent constipation, excess weight and hemorrhoids. You need to take 2-3 sachets per day. The powder should be diluted in water and the resulting composition should be drunk immediately.

Bisacodyl

Bisacodyl is a synthetic medicine. It is prescribed for difficult passage of feces. After ingestion, the urge to defecate will begin to occur within 8 hours. The laxative effect of medications manifests itself in the form of softening of stool and increased peristalsis. Bisacodyl is usually prescribed during childbirth or planned surgery, when the rectum needs to be freed naturally. The product contains powdered sugar and lactose. Take the drug 3 tablets per day or 2 suppositories before bedtime.

Sodium picosulfate

Drugs in this group are able to awaken only in the large intestine. They promote slow absorption of fluid, increasing muscle activity. After 8 hours you can feel the urge to have a bowel movement. This condition in some people may be accompanied by abdominal pain, diarrhea, weakness and low blood pressure. Pregnant women and children under 3 years of age are prohibited from taking drugs from this group.

Glycerol

After taking this group of drugs, stool softens. These manipulations allow you to move quickly through the intestines, which makes bowel movements easier. The urge to defecate appears 10 hours after the administration of suppositories. If used incorrectly, side effects are possible. These include burning and itching in the anus, allergies. Suppositories are prescribed during pregnancy and lactation, for hemorrhoids and anal fissures. It is contraindicated to use suppositories if there is a tumor in the intestines or with proctitis.

Sennosides

Sennosides of groups A and B include herbal medicines. They are able to quickly influence the functioning of the intestines and are not addictive. There are minor side effects. But this does not prevent sennosides of groups A and B from being included in the class of the most effective and safe medications.

Medicines with osmotic effects

This type of laxative is able to retain fluid in the intestines, which helps soften the stool. And their increased volume puts a lot of pressure on the intestines. Such manipulations allow fluid to actively flow out of the fatty tissues. By taking these medications, bowel movements occur naturally.

Older people should take osmotic laxatives with extreme caution.

Fortrans

Fortrans is used in the postoperative period for X-ray and endoscopic examination. This drug is prescribed exclusively for adults. The drug is not able to be absorbed into the circulatory system and dissolve in the intestines. Fortrans should not be taken by people with heart disease. Over 50 years of age, you can use this drug, but only under the supervision of a doctor. The powder must be diluted in a liter of water. The resulting composition is drunk before meals.

Carlsbad salt

This product is produced naturally and artificially. Make sure the solution is warm. This will help reduce pain from cramps and the production of gastric juice. But cold water will have the opposite effect. Before using salt, carefully read the instructions. This remedy can be taken for constipation, to normalize the digestive system. You need to dissolve a large spoon of the product in half a glass of water. Drink the prepared mixture 30 minutes before meals.

Macrogol

This drug can be taken for three months. Macrogol is able to improve intestinal activity. In addition to the usual intake of this remedy, you must adhere to proper nutrition and lead a healthy lifestyle. The drug does not affect metabolic processes in the body in any way. There are also no side effects. In some cases, bloating, pain and burning in the anus may occur.

Microlax

This drug is intended for rectal administration. In addition to the fact that the product irritates the intestines, it softens the stool. The first positive results can be noticed within 15-20 minutes. Microlax is not addictive and does not affect the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract in any way.

Magnesia

The medication is used for the cleansing function of the intestines before therapy or for the treatment of cholecystitis. The drug has a laxative effect and also has a choleretic effect.

Prebiotics for gut health

This class of drugs is excellent for treating constipation. They are special food ingredients that are digested in the gastrointestinal tract. The products stimulate the fermented milk microflora necessary for intestinal function. Once ingested, drugs are able to attract liquid.

This group is considered the safest for treating constipation. This includes food components, carbohydrates that are not digested in the gastrointestinal tract. The drugs in this group act slowly and safely. Lactulose is considered the most popular prebiotic. If you use a large amount of the drug, the effect will appear within 2 hours.

Prebiotics are prescribed to treat intestinal dysbiosis. These drugs have a laxative effect. They also do an excellent job of removing toxic substances. Prebiotics do not interfere with the intake of phosphorus and calcium.

Duphalac

After ingestion, the drug is broken down in the large intestine. As a result, organic acids are formed. Osmotic pressure increases, which leads to an increase in stool volume. After regular use, the intestines are completely emptied and the natural microflora is restored. Duphalac can completely eliminate constipation. Take up to 30 ml for adults and up to 15 ml for children after meals.

Normaze

This drug is usually prescribed to pregnant women and during breastfeeding. The product has no contraindications for use. People suffering from diabetes and frequent constipation should use the drug with extreme caution. The product contains water, citric acid and special components. Normaze is prescribed for constipation and gastrointestinal problems. The drug is taken after meals. Adults are usually prescribed up to 30 ml, and children – up to 15 ml. But you should not self-medicate; all dosages are prescribed exclusively by a doctor.

Laxatives

Once the product gets inside, it absorbs water. All this contributes to rapid defecation. The composition of the drug includes active ingredients of plant origin. They are not digested, but they absorb liquid. Laxative drugs have a special advantage. Medicines are not capable of weakening muscle tone and causing addiction.

It is forbidden to systematically use this group of drugs, as the water-salt balance may be disrupted, which will cause dehydration. They are usually prescribed for food and drug poisoning and frequent constipation.

Fitolax

A well-known laxative, Phytolax, is an excellent treatment for constipation. The herbal preparation has a mild effect. It can be purchased at any pharmacy in the form of dragees or tablets. This product has contraindications. Pregnant and nursing mothers are prohibited from taking Fitolax. Usually the drug is prescribed for frequent constipation. You need to take 2 tablets at night for 2 weeks.

Senade

After using this drug, the first urge to defecate appears within 8 hours. Senade has some contraindications. It is forbidden to take the drug for cystitis, problems in the abdominal cavity and intestines. The product contains senna extract. Senade is prescribed for constipation and hemorrhoids. Take 1 tablet at night.

What you need to know about irritant tablets?

Of the large number of laxative drugs, tablets are considered the most effective. Pharmacies have a wide selection of products with similar effects. Tablets with an irritating effect are usually prescribed for weak peristalsis or problems in the intestines. Drugs of this class are available in the form of suppositories, drops, syrups and tablets. If you use them before bed, you will need to visit the toilet in the morning.

A similar effect occurs due to a chemical effect on intestinal receptors. After taking tablets with an irritating effect, within 5 hours the urge to defecate will appear.

Such drugs have side effects. It is forbidden to take the medication regularly, as over time the colon becomes thinner, which reduces its tone. There is another disadvantage to taking such drugs. With systematic use, addiction occurs.

Drugs included in sennozoids

This class of drugs includes certain medications: Gerbion, Senade, Regulax, Senalex. These medicines contain the active component of senna. Thanks to the laxative effect of the drug, the intestines are cleansed in a short time. As has already been proven by practice, such drugs are not addictive.

The urge to defecate appears within 6 hours after taking the drug. They are prescribed for frequent constipation and hemorrhoids. The medicine Glycelax is prescribed for difficulties in the passage of feces. This product is available in the form of suppositories. After insertion, the stool softens. Glycelax irritates the intestinal mucosa. Typically, this drug is prescribed to people after a heart attack, pregnant and nursing mothers in case of constipation.

Suppositories may cause side effects. These include severe itching, allergies and burning. You should refrain from taking the drug if you have kidney problems. Don't get carried away and use candles for a long time.

Medicines for the intestines

This class of drugs includes drugs of natural and synthetic origin. They are difficult to absorb into the intestine and are also difficult to digest. For chronic constipation, this remedy is unlikely to help, since after taking it you feel severe pain and hear rumbling in your stomach. The composition of intestinal fillers includes components in the form of wheat bran, flax seeds and psyllium.

The drugs absorb liquid, which increases the volume of stool. In addition, you need to take into account that you need to drink at least 2 liters of water every day. These drugs do not act quickly. Their effect occurs only after 2-3 days.

Side effects may include gas, bloating, and increased urination. It is forbidden to take drugs from this group during pregnancy and with irritable bowels.

Remember that it is better not to take any drug without a doctor’s prescription, as it can harm your body.

Laxatives help treat constipation quickly if drinking plenty of fluids, exercise, and proper nutrition do not help. In any case, you should consult a doctor. He will help establish a diagnosis and prescribe the correct treatment. Experts usually recommend treating constipation in a comprehensive way. The drugs should not only rid the intestines of accumulated masses, but also prevent their further behavior. That is why laxatives must be taken in combination with a proper lifestyle and diet.

The content of the article:

Natural laxatives are a fairly broad group of foods and herbs used to treat constipation. It includes agents for accelerating peristalsis with an irritating effect, increasing intestinal contractions and changing the structure of feces - increasing volume and thinning. Despite the fact that natural laxatives do not contain chemical components, when using it is necessary to take into account the cause of problems with bowel movements, the patient’s health and age, physiological status and the possibility of developing allergic reactions.

Benefits of natural laxatives for constipation

Benefits of natural laxatives:

• Gentle but effective action;
• Side effects are very rare;
• Allowed to be used for small children and the elderly, during pregnancy;
• Compatible with medications;
• Eliminate intoxication;
• Promotes weight loss.

Natural laxatives are considered: vegetable oils, foods with a relaxing effect, infusions and decoctions of medicinal herbs with seaweed, hay, buckthorn bark, horse chestnut.

It is believed that natural laxatives are not addictive, but this is not entirely correct. If you accustom your body to constant stimulation, your metabolic rate will decrease and it will become difficult to recover on your own. However, regular use of products that stimulate the intestines does not have any negative effect, but, on the contrary, replenishes the reserve of nutrients, gently stimulating peristalsis.

Contraindications to natural laxatives

Contraindications for use:

1. Organic diseases of various types. It is especially dangerous to use the products for problems with the stomach and intestines. In this case, symptomatic treatment only aggravates the general condition.
2. Uterine and gastric bleeding, so as not to provoke dehydration.
3. Dysbacteriosis - when using cleansing compounds, the number of beneficial microorganisms in the intestines decreases.
4. Malabsorption caused by dysfunction of the digestive organs. The accelerated movement of food through the digestive tract reduces the supply of nutrients.

Possible harm from improper treatment:

• Deterioration of skin quality, splitting of nails and brittle hair due to lack of vitamins and minerals;
• Decreased production of sex hormones due to lack of proteins and natural fats;
• Possible addiction - the reasons are described above.

In order to determine the cause of constipation and minimize possible side effects, you should consult a doctor before starting treatment.

List of the best natural laxatives

If you need a quick cleansing of the intestines, then preference should be given to oils and herbal remedies. Some of them, such as castor oil, can be purchased at the pharmacy. For an adult, this is the best option. But for pregnant women, children and the elderly, it is advisable to give preference to foods with a laxative effect.

Natural laxative for adults

1. Castor oil. Used when rapid bowel movements are necessary. Drink 2 tablespoons on an empty stomach. It is advisable to pinch your nostrils with your fingers; the smell of the medicine is not very pleasant. To get rid of nausea after taking castor oil, just chew 2-3 raisins. When treating chronic constipation, castor oil is replaced with olive or sunflower oil and taken regularly for 2 weeks.
2. Water with lemon juice. This remedy will cause bowel cleansing within 30-40 minutes. Add the juice of half a lemon to 150 ml cold water. They drink in the morning. In order to speed up the action, perform several physical exercises: twisting, placing your arms to the sides, bending towards your legs from a sitting position. This “cocktail” helps cleanse the liver: in this case, the amount of ingredients is doubled and the mixture is left on the liver area for about 40 minutes with a heating pad.
3. Honey water. If you feel heaviness in the intestines, dilute honey in cold water and drink the drink in small sips at a time. The action occurs within 1-3 hours. If problems with bowel movements are constant, the remedy will not help.
4. Vegetables to regulate bowel function. Before going to bed, you need to eat 150-200 g of bell pepper and tomato salad, generously seasoned with vegetable oil without salt.
5. Relaxing afternoon snack. Mix 3 tablespoons of oatmeal with 2 tablespoons of honey and add a little salt. After eating, drink cold water. Drink 200 g of liquid at the same temperature after each meal.
6. Nettle tea with bindweed. Dried herbs are mixed in equal quantities, brewed as tea, 20 g per 200 ml, infused, and drunk throughout the day in equal portions before meals. If you only have nettle on hand, then it is enough to drink half a glass a day, bindweed - half a glass is divided into 3 servings, and the rest is drunk before bed. Contraindications to the use of nettle: increased blood clotting, varicose veins.

Natural laxative for children

Natural remedies to help cope with childhood constipation:

• Dried fruits. If the child is already allowed complementary feeding, then a gruel of soaked and grated prunes is introduced into the diet. Older children are given decoctions of dates, prunes, and figs. The berries are poured with boiling water, allowed to brew for 5-7 hours, then boiled for several minutes. The liquid is drunk and the fruit is eaten.
• Aloe with honey. The product is used for children over 5 years of age if there is no allergy to bee products. Aloe leaves are wrapped in thick paper and put in the refrigerator for a week to activate their biological properties, then the juice is squeezed out. Dilute the juice with honey in a 1:1 ratio, give a teaspoon of the product on an empty stomach.
• Carrot juice. If a child drinks half a glass of freshly squeezed drink before bed or in the morning, problems with bowel movements do not arise.
• Pumpkin porridge. It will help cope with constipation even in children under one year old. Laxative porridge is boiled in water with a small amount of millet. The dish cannot be included in the diet every day: pumpkin has not only a laxative, but also a diuretic effect. Dehydration is dangerous for young children.
• Lingonberry infusion. Dried berries are poured into a thermos - a tablespoon per 200 ml of water, left for 6 hours, and given to children to drink a third of a glass before bed.
• Decoction of medicinal plants: 1 part - crushed cumin, 4 - dried red rowan fruits, 8 - buckthorn bark. A tablespoon of the mixture is poured into a glass of water and boiled in a water bath, left for 45 minutes, and filtered. Dosage for children 2-4 years old - a teaspoon in the morning and before bed, 5-7 years old - in the same multiplicity of a dessert spoon, from 7 and older - a tablespoon according to the same scheme.

Natural laxative for pregnant women

Products on the basis of which pregnant women can create a therapeutic menu: dried fruits, apples, plums, fermented milk drinks, dishes with fiber - whole grain porridge, bran, fresh vegetables - beets, cucumbers, celery, cabbage. Per day, if there are no problems with the kidneys, you need to drink up to 2 liters of liquid.

Pregnant women can use all the dishes recommended for children for constipation, and supplement the daily menu with the following:

1. Beet salad. Grate the boiled beets, mix with finely chopped parsley, add a little steamed prunes. Dressing - yogurt without fillers. They eat it for breakfast.
2. Cottage cheese with dried fruits. Steamed prunes, figs or dried apricots are added to soft low-fat cottage cheese.
3. Laxative candy. Fresh carrots are made using a blender. The juice is expressed and drunk, and the cake is mixed with grated, steamed dried apricots. Instead of carrot cake, you can use pumpkin pulp.

Natural laxative for older people

In order to eliminate constipation in older people, it is recommended:

• Laxative mixture. Dried senna (you can buy pressed briquettes at the pharmacy) is passed through a meat grinder along with steamed figs and prunes, 300 g each. 3 tablespoons of lemon juice and 4 honey are poured into the “puree”. Take 2 tablespoons on an empty stomach with 100 ml of cold water.
• Rowan berry potion. Fresh berries are covered with sugar in a 1:1 ratio by volume, left for 3 days at room temperature, squeezed out the syrup, add vodka - 2 tablespoons per 100 g. Drink a teaspoon in the morning and evening.
• Senna tea. Brew the herb as tea, 20 g per 250 ml, drink in the evening, but no later than 19-20 hours.
• Beet juice with honey. The juice is diluted with boiled water 1 to 3, diluted with honey to taste, and taken on an empty stomach.
• Oregano infusion. Boil 40 g of dried flowers for 15 minutes, pour a glass of boiling water, and then leave under the lid until it cools completely. Drink 30 minutes before evening meals. An additional effect is a sedative effect, which is useful for older people who often suffer from insomnia.
• Flax-seed. It acts gently, at the same time reduces acidity, eliminates heartburn. Infuse in a thermos, pour 2 tablespoons of seeds into 300 ml of boiling water. In the morning, shake the thermos and drink a glass of broth on an empty stomach, drink the rest throughout the day, along with the seeds. If there is flax left, there is no need to throw it away. It is added to dairy products or cereals.

When treating constipation in older people, preference should be given to drugs with delayed action. In order not to become addictive, the methods need to be changed every 2 weeks. If the diet is prepared correctly, the patient monitors nutrition, moves enough, constipation can be overcome within a month.

Watch a video about natural laxatives:

Laxatives is a group of drugs of natural and artificial origin used for the prevention and treatment of defecation disorders (constipation).

Currently, there is no uniform classification of laxatives throughout the world. They are divided by origin, mechanism of action, speed of onset of effect, duration of action.

Classification of laxatives

The following groups of laxative drugs are generally accepted and easy to use.

Irritant constipation tablets

A class of drugs that can stimulate receptors in the colon mucosa that send a nerve impulse to the central nervous system; The central nervous system, in turn, enhances the motor activity of the intestinal muscle lining.

List of fast-acting drugs:

1. (substitute for Dulcolax). A powerful synthetic laxative, the main components of which are mainly crystals of insoluble salts and auxiliary agents. Effective for decreased tone of the colon of any origin (postoperative atony, age-related dystrophic diseases, diet disorders, etc.). Effective within 5-8 hours after application;
2. Guttalax (sodium picosulfate). An effective laxative, the distinctive feature of which is its ability to exert its effect on the body only in the colon. As it progresses, Guttalax is not adsorbed in the stomach, small intestine, or liver, and does not cause a toxic effect even with long-term use. Indicated for acute and chronic constipation. The effect of the drug appears 6-12 hours after use;
3. Izafenin. A laxative that causes colon irritation. It is used for long-term constipation of various etiologies. It is not recommended to take the drug together with alkaline waters. Possible side effects in the form of abdominal pain. The effect after application occurs within 5-8 hours.

Prebiotics

Laxatives that are a human food product, but do not carry energy or nutritional value. These products are not broken down in the stomach and are not absorbed in the small intestine, but only by their volume they create a large amount of nutrient medium for the microflora of the large intestine.

These substances are found in everyday food (garlic, corn, legumes, cereals, bananas), and mother's breast milk (oligosaccharides). But consuming them in large quantities is used only for medicinal purposes.

Examples of natural prebiotics and food components:

• oligofructose;
• lactitol;
• ubiquinone;
• glutathione;
• selenium;
• plant and algae extracts;
• yeast;
• vitamins A, E, C.

Types of prebiotics:

• Clean- laxatives containing components that are not digested in the stomach and small intestine.
• Combined- prebiotic + enterosorbent (Bismuth, ). They are used for constipation caused by the toxic effects of infectious agents, metal salts, and poisons.

It is important to remember that prebiotics are almost always used in combination with probiotics. The first group creates nutrition for the second. Quite often, pharmaceutical companies combine them into one drug.

What are the types of probiotics?

• Liquid- suspensions and solutions for oral use containing live bacteria and their habitat and nutrition (probiotic). Most liquid preparations additionally contain vitamins, macro and microelements, amino acids and other nutrients. They are indicated for long-term diseases of the gastrointestinal tract associated with constipation.
• Dry- these are artificially bred strains of lactobifidobacteria in the form of powder, tablets, capsules. These probiotics are used to prepare ready-to-use suspensions. The proliferation of bacteria in the colon begins within 4-6 hours after ingestion.

Examples of optimal prebiotics:

1. Lactusan- consists mainly of a synthetic carbohydrate - lactulose. This high-molecular carbohydrate is metabolized in the intestine, reducing its acidity to an optimal level, thereby sharply increasing the level of reproduction of non-pathogenic flora (lactobacteria). Prescribed for various chronic pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract, constipation in pregnant women, for the prevention of dysbacteriosis after taking antibiotics, and liver diseases. The effect of treatment depends on the degree of damage to the intestinal mucosa, the general condition of the body, and susceptibility to the drug. The course of treatment is no more than 14 days.
2. Pikovit- a combined prebiotic based on oligofructose with a large amount of vitamins. Contains vitamins: A, C, D3, B1, B2, B6, B9, B12. It is used mainly in childhood, as well as in patients with malnutrition (prolonged fasting, cancer, tuberculosis, etc.). In the age of pharmacological revolution, many people use the drug to correct poor appetite, prevent hypovitaminosis in winter, complex therapy for delayed child development, and intestinal infections. The course of treatment is up to 3 months.
3. Eubicore- active high-molecular carbohydrate (consists mainly of fine bran and yeast cultures. Under the influence of intestinal secretions, it quickly breaks down into monosaccharides, which, in turn, become nutritious flora for lactobifidobacteria. Also contains some vitamins (A, C, D3, E Indications for use: prophylaxis after taking antibiotics, constipation during pregnancy and lactation, chronic gastrointestinal diseases.Can be used for up to 6 months.

Prebiotics have virtually no side effects. In rare cases, short-term abdominal discomfort, rumbling, nausea, and allergic reactions in the form of a rash are possible.

Laxatives with osmotic action

This class of drugs consists of substances that can attract water in large quantities. This occurs due to the creation of high osmotic pressure in the intestine.

Water from the body enters the intestinal lumen and binds to the drug. The stool becomes softer. Prescribed for idiopathic constipation (without known cause).

People with chronic kidney disease, heart failure, and diabetics should also take these medications with caution.

1. Magnesium sulfate - multifunctional drug. When administered orally, it acts as a laxative. Magnesium sulfate is a white crystalline salt that is not absorbed in the intestines, but absorbs a large amount of water. One of the most powerful laxatives. It has a number of side effects, including: loss of electrolytes, vitamins, loss of intestinal microflora. Used orally with caution for constipation that cannot be treated with other laxatives, acute abdominal pain caused by impaired bowel movements. The effect of the drug occurs within 1-3 hours.
2. Macrogol - saline laxative. Consists mainly of Na and K salts. Used to prepare for surgical interventions on the stomach and intestines, and x-ray examination of the abdominal cavity. It is not recommended to use the Macrogol laxative during pregnancy, children, and patients in moderate and severe condition. This drug also causes a decrease in the absorption of other drugs. Therefore, during the treatment period, you should avoid taking medications in parallel.
3. Carlsbad salt - solution of natural geyser salts. The principle of action is the same as that of other osmotic agents. It also has a choleretic effect. Prescribed for chronic constipation of various origins, cholecystitis, bile duct dyskinesia. Has virtually no side effects. The course of treatment is no more than 14 days.

Enteric fillers

Natural and synthetic laxatives. Their combined mechanism of action is somewhat similar to the effects of osmotic diuretics, prebiotics and irritant laxatives.

Intestinal fillers are not digested by the body; in large quantities they accumulate in the colon and stretch its walls. They also absorb liquid and increase in volume several times.

This treatment method is used infrequently because:

• causes discomfort and rumbling in the stomach;
• can only be used with normal colon tone;
• not used in children and pregnant women;
• Contraindicated for neurological and cardiovascular diseases.

These include:

1. Wheat bran- the main component is complex saccharides. Metabolized in the colon to monosaccharides, causing intensive growth of positive bacterial flora. They contain a large amount of B vitamins. They are used as a reserve remedy when the effect of other laxatives is insufficient. The timing of correction varies from person to person.
2. Agar-agar- a substance obtained from seaweed. Once in the intestines, it creates a favorable environment for the growth of non-pathogenic flora. The duration of treatment may vary.
3. Flax seeds- a poorly digestible food product. When consumed, they increase significantly in volume and serve as a breeding ground for lactobifidobacteria. It is used for chronic constipation of various etiologies.

Herbal products

This group of drugs and foods affects the production of intestinal juice in the lower intestines.

The contents become capable of quickly moving through the intestine during peristalsis and being removed out. They can exist in the form of medicinal powders and decoctions of plants, as well as directly their fruits, flowers, etc.

Most Common Herbal Laxatives:

1. Depuraflux- dry extract of centaury, anise, buckthorn, caraway, coriander, peppermint. Prescribed for chronic diseases of the lower gastrointestinal tract, bile duct dyskinesia, poisoning. Herbal metabolites cause increased secretion of glands in the submucosal layer of the intestine. It is not recommended to take more than 3 weeks
2. Kafiol- contains senna fruits and leaves, plum and fig pulp, vaseline oil. It has a pronounced irritant effect and acts as a natural osmotic diuretic. Indicated for acute and chronic constipation, surgical and diagnostic procedures. For chronic constipation, use no more than 2 weeks.
3. - prevents excessive thickening of intestinal contents and facilitates the passage of feces. Consists mainly of plantain extract and auxiliary components.
   Indications: acute and chronic diseases of the colon with long-term defecation disorders, intestinal postoperative atony, neurological diseases.

Laxatives with emollient action (plasticizers)

A distinctive property of plasticizers is their effect on the small intestine. Their direct influence softens the contents of the small intestine even before the formation of feces.

Used mainly in the postoperative period for intestinal atony, and in cases where it is necessary to avoid overstrain of the anterior abdominal wall (prevention of suture dehiscence, bleeding, secondary infection).

That is, these drugs help bowel movements even without the increased influence of intestinal muscles.

Plasticizers are the basis for the prevention of constipation, but not its treatment.

The main active ingredient of most drugs in this group is Docusate. It has a pronounced effect in preventing constipation.

Let's look at the drugs:

1. Almond oil - Natural laxative and inexpensive. Directly with its physical and chemical properties, fat softens the contents of the small intestine and crushes fecal stones. Increases muscle tone during atony. Prescribed for prolonged constipation of various etiologies. The effect of the drug during pregnancy has not been studied enough. Side effects may include allergic reactions, nausea, abdominal discomfort.
2. Glycerin - the drug consists of glycerol (alcohol), stearic acid and sodium carbonate. Has a pronounced laxative effect of delayed action. Alcohol and fatty acid soften the contents of the intestine and break it into small components. Sodium carbonate absorbs metabolites harmful to the body and is excreted in combination with them. It is recommended to be used in suppositories for the treatment of constipation of various origins. Has no adverse reactions.
3. Norgalax (docusate sodium) - one of the fastest medicines. The effect of its use occurs within 15 to 30 minutes. Entering the intestine, it reduces the surface tension of the liquid near the walls, helping the contents move along the intestine. Used for acute and chronic constipation.

Plasticizers are not used in children and pregnant women, for chronic kidney diseases, hemorrhoids. Their long-term use is not recommended, as they significantly reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).

How to choose a laxative?

There is no single criterion for choosing a drug. In each specific case, one or another group of drugs is needed. If prescribed incorrectly, there may be serious consequences for human health and even life.

Drops

Drops are used in cases where constipation is not a consequence of a serious illness gastrointestinal tract, liver, gallbladder, pancreas.

A one-time course of drops is used for the treatment and prevention of idiopathic defecation disorder in all age groups.

The drops are easy to use and quickly (within 6-8 hours) produce the desired effect. The choice of drug depends on the cause of constipation.

The mechanism of action depends on the group affiliation of the laxative. Taken orally. The most commonly used drops are the irritant type.

They act mainly only in the colon. Gastric juice, pancreatic and liver secretions do not affect their metabolism. Not addictive.

Examples of laxatives in drop form:

• Guttalax;

Pills

Laxative tablets are analogous to other forms of drug release. The mechanism of action is no different from drops, suspensions, suppositories, etc.

According to statistics, the effect of taking tablet medications takes longer than from liquid forms.

To make the right choice of laxative tablets, it is necessary to clarify the cause of constipation, diagnose concomitant diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, liver, and heart.

Commonly used laxative tablets:

• Bisacodyl;
• Dulcolax;

Candles

A widely used form of release of laxatives.

Suppositories are effective for groups of people for whom the use of oral medications is impossible:

• significantly reduced intestinal tone;
• tumors;
• nodes;
• gastrointestinal scars.

Also used in young children and when drops and tablets are ineffective.

This group of laxatives acts directly in the rectosigmoid colon. The list of drugs includes drugs with different mechanisms of action.

The most popular laxatives in the form of suppositories:

• Bisacodyl;
• Dulcolax;
• Ferrolax;

The required effect from use occurs within 4-6 hours.

Contraindications are:

• acute inflammatory processes of the recto-sigmoid region.

Laxatives during pregnancy and lactation

One of the most common problems of a pregnant woman. This is facilitated by overstretching of the uterus by the fetus and increased pressure on the rectum.

Consequently, the cause of defecation disturbance during this period is a mechanical obstacle to the passage of feces through the intestine. The health of mother and child depends on the correct choice of laxative.

For example, drugs that cause excessive muscle relaxation during hypertensive constipation can cause premature birth, and excessive irritation of the intestinal mucosa can cause severe peristalsis and, as a result, fetal damage, bleeding, and acute obstetric emergencies.

Many pharmacological companies are developing the most convenient in functional use methods to combat constipation during gestation.

What laxatives can you take during pregnancy:

• Prebiotics - help get rid of constipation 2-3 days after use;
• - convenient to use during pregnancy. The mechanism of action is to split the “lump” contained in the rectum and turn it into separate small parts. Microlax acts locally, exclusively in the rectum and rarely causes side effects.

It is important to remember that treatment of constipation during pregnancy should be comprehensive. In addition to drug therapy, adherence to diet, diet, sleep and wakefulness is very important. .

• salt solutions of magnesium, potassium, sodium;
• oil-based preparations;
• products based on flax seeds, cellulose, kelp, agar-agar;
• excessive use of herbal infusions (senna).

Breastfeeding products

Most of the substances she eats get into mother's milk.

Quite often they can cause allergic reactions, organ damage, and various diseases in an infant.

Since most of his organ systems at this stage are underdeveloped.

Therefore, important aspects in the treatment of constipation in a nursing mother are two criteria for choosing a drug:

• The substances contained in the drug are harmless to the child;
• The drug does not pass into breast milk.

Which laxatives to choose:

• Preparations based on lactulose: syrups - “Lactulose poly”, “Romphalak”, “”. They act locally and do not enter the child’s body.
• Macrogol-based products:"Forlax", "", "Transipeg";
• Senna preparations:"Regulax", "Sinnalax", "".

How to choose a laxative for a child?

The children's body is more vulnerable to the effects of pharmacological drugs. You should not rely on the plant origin of the product, or its lack of absorption in the gastrointestinal tract.

• Do not cause systemic effects on the body;
• Do not reduce the absorption of salts, proteins, fats, carbohydrates and vitamins;
• They have a mild effect and do not cause serious side effects.

Use of laxatives by age:

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Laxatives for the elderly

Causes of constipation in older people can be:

• Aging of the body and disruption of the intestinal secretory glands;
• Chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• Decreased muscle tone of the intestinal walls;
• Poor diet (lack of fiber in food);
• Tumors of the rectum, sigmoid, colon.

Complex treatment of defecation disorders includes prescribing a diet with an increased amount of natural fiber (brown bread, cereals, legumes, garlic, corn, bran).

As well as drug therapy:

• Regulax- in case of violation of intestinal secretory function;
• Bisacodyl- with reduced tone of the muscular lining of the intestine;
• « » - microenemas for narrowing of the intestinal lumen at the level of the rectum and sigmoid colon (tumors, scars).

Many drugs cause dehydration of the body, addiction, and become a factor in malignancy (degeneration into a malignant tumor) of benign tumors, scars, and polyps.

Purgen substitutes

Purgen- the most common fast-acting laxative of the twentieth century in the USSR. Still in use today. Its advantage is its low price.

However, the high effectiveness of purgen is associated with its active ingredient “phenolphthalein”, which, in turn, can cause a lot of negative effects on the body, even without concomitant diseases.

Among them: allergic reactions, frequent urination, enterocolitis. With long-term use, purgen disrupts the functioning of the kidneys, causes endothelial dysfunction (a drop in blood pressure due to an inadequate vascular response), and bleeding in the intestines.

Today there are a significant number of analogues of purgen that do not cause such significant consequences. These drugs are milder, non-addictive, harmless for most people, and act instantly (relative to purgen).

Among them:

• Dulcolax;
• Forlax;
• Microlax.

When should you not take fast-acting laxatives?

For each group of drugs there are contraindications for use:

Laxatives for weight loss

This method of losing weight remains quite popular among young and middle-aged women and men. In most cases, people take all kinds of drugs with a laxative effect, forgetting about the possible consequences.

Why you should not use laxatives as a method of losing weight:

Traditional methods of treating constipation

The best folk recipes for safe use at home:

• For treatment, you need to drink a glass of water on an empty stomach. This should be done before eating. You can add a spoonful of honey to the water.
• A good remedy for intestinal disorders are baked apples. 3-5 apples a day help increase the secretion of intestinal glands. It is an effective and mild laxative.
• Olive oil- one of the best foods for constipation. One tablespoon a day before meals is a recipe for gut health.
• Fresh kefir- can be used as a laxative to cleanse the intestines, drinking 1 glass 2 hours before bedtime.
• For auxiliary therapy for constipation, decoctions and infusions of herbs (buckthorn, senna) are used. These herbs can be purchased at the pharmacy. To prepare a decoction, you need to pour the herbs with water at 80 - 90 degrees. And use after 5 hours. About 200 g of herbs per 2 liters of water. 1 glass (200 ml) 3 times a day before meals.
• Green tea with milk- another remedy for constipation. Its mechanism of action is to absorb water into the intestinal lumen from the vessels and increase muscle tone.
  It is enough to drink a mug of tea with milk (200 ml) 1-2 times a day.
• Black grape juice- Suitable as an additional remedy for constipation. Dark grape varieties contain a large amount of fiber, B vitamins, and microelements.
  The recommended dose of juice is 300-400 ml per day in portions with meals.

Conclusions and conclusions

Symptomatic and idiopathic constipation is a widespread problem among the population of all age categories.

Chronicity of this process leads to a significant decrease in the quality of life of people and causes diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, kidneys, pancreas, and heart. Therefore, it is very important to carry out their prevention and treatment in a timely manner.

Some useful tips:

• If this is your first time experiencing constipation and mild laxatives do not bring the desired result, it is best to consult a specialist for medical help.
• - a fairly common situation. If the drug is prescribed incorrectly, negative consequences are possible. Choose a laxative for your child strictly according to the recommendations of your doctor.
• During pregnancy and lactation Osmotic laxatives (especially saline laxatives) can harm your health and the health of your baby.

To avoid cancer and chronic inflammatory diseases of the lower gastrointestinal tract in old age, you should not abuse emollient laxatives.

In any pharmacy today there is a huge assortment of different laxatives for constipation, and almost each has certain contraindications or disadvantages. The main “disadvantage” of any laxative is that they are not drugs that treat, they do not have a serious therapeutic effect, but only help to solve the problem of stagnation of feces in the intestines at a time; if you drink a laxative, you are cleansed, but the problem is not solved. In addition, all anti-constipation tablets, solutions, syrups, herbal mixtures, and powders should be distinguished by their effect on the intestines.

What is the best, strongest, most effective, fast laxative, which is natural and safe? Can addiction develop to a particular drug? People suffering from constipation have many questions, but the first step is to find out the cause of problems with normal bowel movements. Most often, chronic constipation is caused by diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, the entire digestive system, which should not be eliminated with the help of laxatives. Before using any remedies, try to change the situation with the following simple rules that promote natural bowel movements:

• The most effective thing is in the morning, as soon as you wake up, drink 1-2 glasses of not cold, but room temperature water, preferably mineral water without gases, 30-40 minutes before breakfast, this cleanses the stomach and starts the digestion process.
• Abdominal massage helps very well; honey and coffee have a laxative effect.
• A healthy diet, an active lifestyle, the presence of beets, cabbage, prunes, apricots, and any raw vegetables and fruits in the diet improve intestinal motility and do not provoke constipation.
• The most effective, quick remedy for constipation is the correct identification of the causes of its occurrence and their elimination.
• Fresh kefir is very useful before bed.
• Castor oil is a fast-acting laxative.

All medications for constipation are usually divided according to the nature of their effect into: agents with an osmotic effect, an irritant effect, prebiotic-laxatives, and filler drugs. Therefore, when choosing a remedy for constipation, you should decide which class of drugs is indicated and necessary for you, taking into account all contraindications and possible side effects.

• When purchasing tablets or suppositories at a pharmacy, find out the active ingredient of a particular drug and carefully read the instructions.
• You should not use irritating laxatives for a long time.
• You should choose a safe, good, laxative, especially for chronic constipation, the best ones are prebiotic drugs, they stimulate intestinal activity and restore microflora, with their help you can achieve a sustainable, long-term therapeutic effect.
• To achieve a faster effect, you can use, or better yet, an oil microenema.

Irritating constipation tablets

These are perhaps the most effective, quick laxatives for constipation, their widest variety, they are prescribed for atony or sluggish intestinal motility. These include drops, syrups, tablets, such as Sodium picosulfate, Bisacodyl, etc., and herbal remedies, such as senna leaves, castor oil, rhubarb root, joster fruit, buckthorn bark. The advantage of such drugs is their rapid effect; taking irritating tablets for constipation in the evening leads to stool in the morning.

• Action

The laxative effect of irritants occurs due to chemical irritation of colon receptors, which stimulates peristalsis. Typically, this stimulation of the colon leads to a single bowel movement approximately 6 to 10 hours after taking the drug.

• Side effects

Such anti-constipation pills cannot be used systematically for a sluggish intestine; this leads to depletion of colon receptors and a marked decrease in its tone. With long-term, regular (more than 10 days) use of such laxatives, the risk of laxative disease or intestinal atony, degeneration of nervous tissue and disturbances in the electrolyte balance of the blood increases. Addiction to such drugs quickly develops; the initial dose does not quickly lead to a significant effect, and it is not advisable to increase it. The disadvantage and side effect of irritant drugs is intense pain in the intestines, due to which most patients refuse to use them.

• Contraindications and indications

Such drugs are indicated for acute, occasional constipation, not for the chronic stage. They are contraindicated for long-term use, as well as for nursing and pregnant women, and infants. You cannot use such laxatives for constipation in case of: abdominal pain of unknown etiology, acute pain, exacerbation of anal fissures, intestinal, stomach, acute inflammatory diseases of the abdominal organs, intestinal obstruction, peritonitis, perforation of the intestines or stomach, in violation of water-salt metabolism.

The list of laxatives is presented in the table. It is worth remembering that before using any medications you should consult your doctor.

Delayed laxatives - prebiotics

Laxatives - prebiotics are the safest means in the fight against constipation, so they can be used both after childbirth and during lactation. This group of drugs consists of food ingredients, carbohydrates, which cannot be digested in the upper gastrointestinal tract; they reach the large intestine unchanged, where they act as growth stimulators of beneficial intestinal microflora. These include: inulin, lactulose and fructooligosaccharides. They cannot be called strong remedies for constipation, however, they act slowly and safely, and provide a more lasting therapeutic effect than saline and irritating laxatives.

• Mechanism of action

Prebiotics are the best laxative; in addition to stimulating the growth of beneficial microflora, they gradually restore intestinal function, acting both as osmotic laxatives and as mild irritants, since the organic acids produced during the fermentation of prebiotics have a stimulating effect on the intestinal muscles. The most popular and effective prebiotic is Lactulose, a laxative effect with a large dosage of 40-50 ml is achieved within 1.5-2 hours.

• Side effects

It has practically no side effects, with the exception of , which goes away 3 days after starting to take the prebiotic. And also not a very quick effect for constipation, since it is necessary for the drug to pass through the entire gastrointestinal tract, so stool occurs 2-3 days after the usual dosage.

• Indications, contraindications and benefits

Prebiotics are indicated for both acute and chronic constipation. They are often used for problems characterized by stool retention and constipation. In addition to the laxative effect and normalization of microflora, prebiotics also have detoxifying properties, removing toxic nitrogen-containing substances, and they are also indicated for hepatic encephalopathy. Prebiotics improve the absorption of phosphorus and calcium, suppress the proliferation of opportunistic flora in the intestines.

Osmotic laxatives

For chronic constipation caused by any gastrointestinal diseases, saline osmotic laxatives are not recommended. Most often they are prescribed for a one-time cleansing of the intestines in case of acute stool retention, food or drug poisoning, as well as for diagnostic procedures on the gastrointestinal tract. They are safe laxatives, unlike irritating drugs, osmotic remedies for constipation do not cause lazy bowel syndrome, they can be used for a long time (Forlax) up to 3 months, but like other laxatives, they do not eliminate the cause of constipation, but only provide symptomatic relief action.

Their advantage is that they do not weaken muscle tone and are not addictive. The products in this group include the following salt preparations: citrate, magnesium hydroxide, sodium and magnesium sulfate, Carlsbad salt, polyethylene glycol.

• Action

Osmotic laxatives retain water in the intestinal lumen, which helps soften stool and increase its volume. They increase osmotic pressure, also attracting water from adipose tissue and from blood plasma, which leads to a laxative effect.

• Side effects

For chronic constipation, the use of saline laxatives is more appropriate and physiological, but if they are used for several months, a loss of electrolytes, sodium salts, and potassium occurs, which disrupts the water-salt balance and causes dehydration, which is unacceptable for children’s growing bodies and elderly people with heart failure, Therefore, the use of such drugs for more than 3 months is not recommended. Another disadvantage is the occurrence of abdominal pain during bowel movements.

• Contraindications and indications

The most basic indication for their use is food and drug poisoning, acute constipation. Polyethylene glycol can be taken by pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Enteric fillers

Bulk intestinal fillers are preparations of both synthetic (modified polysaccharides) and natural origin; they are difficult to digest, are not absorbed, increase the volume of feces and help accelerate the act of defecation. However, many patients with chronic constipation refuse to use them, since such drugs do not always help in the fight against constipation; they often cause bloating, rumbling, pain, but do not improve intestinal motility. The main representatives of this group of remedies for constipation are: Flax seed, Agar-agar, Wheat bran, Sterculia, Methylcellulose, Fleawort seeds, ovoid or oval psyllium husk.

• Action

The effect of bulk laxatives is based on the fact that they swell, absorb water, and by increasing their volume they help stretch the intestinal walls. Therefore, defecation is accelerated due to a reflex reaction from the contractile wave; with a sluggish intestine, such remedies may not be effective. To achieve the desired effect, the ability of the colon to swell must be maintained, and when using them, you should drink at least 2 liters of fluid per day. Bulking laxatives are considered mild agents with a delayed effect; when taking Agra-agra, the effect occurs after 12 hours, after taking Flavor seeds, stool evacuation occurs after 24 hours, and the use of methylcellulose leads to bowel movements after 1-3 days.

• Side effects

Stretching of the walls leads to flatulence, rumbling, bloating; it is also not always possible to take such a large amount of fluid, since urination becomes more frequent and with some concomitant diseases, excessive fluid intake is not advisable.

• Contraindications

Such remedies for constipation are contraindicated during pregnancy due to the threat of miscarriage, also in case of irritable bowel syndrome, since this further increases flatulence. It is not advisable to increase the amount of feces when the patient is in bed, with intestinal obstruction and neurological disorders.

Laxative herbal remedies

Among herbal laxatives, the following most popular drugs can be distinguished:

• Buckthorn fruits - as well as Buckthorn bark, syrup, extract, Ramnil, Zhostera fruits
• Kafiol is a combination drug that contains the fruits and leaves of senna, fig fruits
• The laxative Fitolax is a dietary supplement containing common apricot fruits, plantain leaves, dill fruits, senna leaves and extract.
• Laminaria thallus (seaweed) - granules, tablets, extract, PhytoTransit, Mamoclam Laminaria thallus
• Plantain oval seed shell - preparations Mucofalk, Naturolax, Fiberlex are herbal laxatives
• Proctophytol (Antihemorrhoidal collection) - the collection includes Senna holly leaves, Coriander fruits, Licorice roots, Buckthorn alder bark, Yarrow herb
• Rhubarb roots - tablets, extract, syrup
• Licorice root powder is a combined preparation that contains Licorice roots, Senna leaf, Fennel fruit extract, Sulfur
• Stelnik tincture - roots of stelnik, tincture has a laxative, anti-inflammatory, hemostatic effect
• Laxative collection No. 1 - which includes Yarrow herb, Buckthorn alder bark, Stinging nettle leaves
• Laxative collection No. 2 - composed of Buckthorn bark, Senna leaf, Anise fruit, Licorice root, Buckthorn fruit.