The benefit of laxatives is that you can purchase them without a doctor's prescription and they are generally safe and effective. Laxatives may help prevent constipation caused by some drugs or prevent straining to have a bowel movement, which might be dangerous for some people.
Here are some risks to be aware of:
Laxatives may cause cramping, bloating, and nausea in some people.
Long-term use of laxatives, except for bulk laxatives, can make you dependent on laxatives to go to the bathroom and may mask important constipation symptoms.
Laxatives can interfere with how other medications are absorbed. In general you should avoid taking a laxative within two hours of taking other medications.
Never use laxatives for weight loss. Laxative abuse does not help you lose weight and can result in dangerous dehydration, weakness, fainting, and kidney damage.
Laxatives can be useful constipation remedies, but they are not a substitute for eating enough fiber, getting regular exercise, and drinking plenty of fluid. Other ways to avoid constipation are to never ignore the urge to have a bowel movement, set aside regular times of the day for a bowel movement, and avoid foods that are high in fats and sugar.
If you are having trouble with constipation, talk to your doctor about what type of laxative might be best for you. Never ignore symptoms of blood in your stools or dark, tarry stools. If you have constipation for more than two weeks, abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting, talk to your doctor before starting any constipation remedy.
Learn more in the Everyday Health Digestive Health Center.