Health Risks Associated With Using Laxatives

Laxative administration is one of the most common methods for treating gastrointestinal issues in the western world. They work by stimulating the bowels to evacuate. Laxatives are especially useful in cases of constipation, the inability to have a bowel movement over extended periods. There are several mechanisms of action among different types of laxatives. There are six different types of laxatives sold today. Three of the most common are bulk-forming laxatives, which add volume to the stool; lubricant laxatives, which coat the stool to make it more slippery and easier to evacuate; and stool softeners, which increase the amount of water in the stool to make it pass smoothly.