To remember

• If you are taking medication on a regular basis, always consult your pharmacist to determine the appropriate treatment.

• All products to relieve constipation are available over the counter. A prescription is not necessary.

• Some laxatives can be used on a long-term basis, while others are recommended for occasional use. Please refer to your pharmacist for more information.

Stool softeners

• Examples of drugs: Colace, Dulcoconfort, mineral oil

• Slow action: produces its full effect after a few days

• Purpose: to soften the stool and make it easier to pass

• Recommended for patients who need to avoid straining

Stimulant laxatives

• Examples of drugs: Bisacodyl, Senokot

• Act within 6 to 8 hours by oral route. Act within 15 to 60 minutes when taken as a suppository

• Purpose: to stimulate the colon walls (contraction)

• Prolonged use of stimulant laxatives is not recommended (risk of developing lazy bowel syndrome)

Enemas

• Examples of products: Fleet, Lax-A Nema

• Mechanically evacuating stool

• Purpose: to relieve constipation in minutes

• Always ask your pharmacist before use