The best mild laxatives for daily use are typically bulk-forming laxatives (fiber supplements) like psyllium (Metamucil), methylcellulose (Citrucel), or calcium polycarbophil (FiberCon) because they are gentle, add bulk to stool, and are considered safe for long-term use, though they require plenty of water and can cause gas initially. Osmotic laxatives, such as MiraLAX or Milk of Magnesia, are also good options for regularity but need adequate fluids and can cause bloating. Always consult your doctor before starting daily laxative use to ensure it's appropriate for you.
For long-term use, bulk-forming laxatives (fiber supplements) like psyllium (Metamucil) and methylcellulose (Citrucel) are generally considered the safest and best first-line choice, as they work gently with your body to add bulk to stool, but require ample water to prevent blockage. Osmotic laxatives like polyethylene glycol (PEG) (MiraLAX) are also suitable for regular use if bulk-forming agents aren't enough, but need plenty of fluids. Stimulant laxatives (Senna, Dulcolax) should be avoided for long-term use due to dependence risk.
Do not take laxatives every day to ease your constipation as this can be harmful. Speak to a GP if you're still constipated after making lifestyle changes. In some cases, you may be prescribed a laxative to use regularly, but this should always be supervised by a GP or gastroenterologist (a specialist in gut problems).
In general, fiber supplements are the gentlest on your body. These also are called bulk-forming laxatives. Metamucil and Citrucel fall into this category.
Bulk-forming fiber supplements include calcium polycarbophil (Equilactin, Fibercon), methylcellulose fiber (Citrucel), and psyllium (Fiber-Lax, Konsyl, Metamucil), and wheat dextrin (Benefiber). Unlike other laxatives, you can take these every day.
Certain fruits have added benefits for easing constipation. Apples, pears, and prunes contain natural sugars that stimulate bowel movements. Kiwis contain an enzyme that stimulates the upper digestive tract.
SHOULD I TAKE SENOKOT® GUMMIES DAILY? You should only take Senokot® Gummies when you are experiencing occasional constipation. * Do not exceed the recommended daily amount or use this supplement for longer than a week without consulting a doctor.
Fibre supplements like Metamucil and Fybogel add bulk to stools and improve bowel regularity, essential for preventing constipation. Osmotic laxatives such as Movicol act faster, ideal for occasional relief. Herbal laxatives, including Henry Blooms, offer a gentler, natural approach.
Some self-help methods of treating constipation are:
GoLYTELY is a combination of polyethylene glycol 3350, an osmotic laxative, and electrolytes (sodium sulfate, sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate and potassium chloride) for oral solution.
Metamucil and Citrucel should not be used for more than 1 week as treatment for constipation. As an osmotic laxative, Miralax powder should be dosed once a day and dissolved in half to one cup of water. Miralax may take a few days to see the full effect. Miralax should not be used for more than 1 week for constipation.
Fiber
Dulcolax has an average rating of 5.4 out of 10 from a total of 1178 ratings on Drugs.com. 39% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 40% reported a negative effect. Senokot S has an average rating of 8.7 out of 10 from a total of 6 ratings on Drugs.com.
Increasing the intake of water and fiber is often the first step. Vegetables, fruit (especially prunes), whole-grain breads, and high-fiber cereals are excellent sources of fiber. Bran is an alternative source, although it may cause excessive gas and bloating.
Eat a high-fiber diet.
Fiber adds bulk to stool and helps the stool hold fluids. These factors give stool the right shape and weight to move through the colon. Fiber-rich foods include fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole-grain bread, cereal and rice. Increase dietary fiber slowly to prevent bloating and gas.
You can take Fybogel for as long as the constipation lasts, or for as long as your doctor has recommended. This will usually be for up to a week. For more serious constipation, and if you're taking Fybogel to increase the fibre in your diet, your doctor may recommend that you take it for many months.
Talk to a healthcare professional. If making dietary and lifestyle changes still aren't doing the trick, ask your doctor about taking MiraLAX® – the #1 recommended laxative brand by doctors and gastroenterologists.
You generally shouldn't take Coloxyl (docusate) every day long-term without a doctor's advice, especially the types with senna, as prolonged use can lead to dependence; while Coloxyl without senna might be okay for longer, it's best to consult your healthcare provider if you need it for more than a week to rule out underlying issues and ensure safety. Always drink plenty of water and speak to a professional if symptoms persist beyond a few days.
Laxido or Movicol? A lot of people ask whether Laxido is the same as Movicol. In a word, the answer is yes. Apart from flavourings, Laxido and Movicol contain exactly the same active ingredients, and exactly the same quantity of those ingredients.
Metamucil's cons include common side effects like gas, bloating, cramps, and nausea, especially when starting. More serious concerns involve potential intestinal blockage or choking if not taken with enough liquid, potential interference with medication absorption, and risks for people with certain conditions or allergies. It can also contain added sugars, sweeteners, or sodium, depending on the product.
First choice: bulk-forming laxatives
They are safe to use daily. They contain various ingredients, and you may have to try more than one to find the product that helps you with minimal side effects, such as flatulence and bloating. They may be marketed as laxatives or as fiber supplements.
How can I treat my constipation?
Magnesium is a common and effective remedy for constipation. It's available over the counter in several forms, including liquid, capsule, and powder. If your bowel movements are infrequent or difficult, magnesium could help. You may have to try different types to see what works best for you.