what is the difference between osmotic and saline laxatives

Saline laxatives draw water into the bowel, leading to softer stool and more frequent bowel movements. All saline laxatives are some form of a salt, which naturally draws water. Sometimes they’re categorized as an osmotic laxative

because they work similarly.

Full Answer

What are saline osmotic laxatives?

Phillips' ® offers a range of saline osmotic laxatives to provide comfortable, overnight relief from occasional constipation. These types of laxatives contain magnesium, a mineral salt that doesn't cause cramping like some stimulant laxatives. Stimulant laxatives cause the intestines to contract, which pushes the stool out.

What are saline osmotics made of?

These are members of a larger class of laxatives called saline osmotics, which draw water into the bowels and trigger bowel movements. The active ingredients include magnesium, sulfate, citrate, and phosphate.

What are the ingredients in Saline laxatives?

These are members of a larger class of laxatives called saline osmotics, which draw water into the bowels and trigger bowel movements. The active ingredients include magnesium, sulfate, citrate, and phosphate. But don't take more than the recommended amounts of these laxatives, or use them long-term, because they can throw off your chemistry.

What is the difference between laxatives and stool softeners?

Stool softeners are a type of laxative that works by drawing water into the stool, making it softer and more comfortable to pass. All laxatives work in different ways, each with the intention of helping relieve constipation. Understanding the differences between laxatives and stool softeners may help a person decide which one to use.

Are saline and osmotic laxatives the same?

Saline laxatives (a type of osmotic laxative) act like a sponge to draw water into the colon for easier passage of stool.

What is a osmotic laxative?

Osmotic laxatives are medications that draw water into the stool, resulting in softer stools and more frequent, easier to pass bowel movements. Some commonly used osmotic laxatives include polyethylene glycol (PEG), milk of magnesia, and lactulose.

What is a saline laxative?

Saline laxatives are essentially salts in liquid; they rapidly empty all the contents of the bowel and are not intended for long-term use or for pregnant women. These generally work within 30 minutes to 3 hours.

What is the difference between an osmotic laxative and a bulk-forming laxative?

Osmotic laxatives draw water into the bowel from the surrounding tissues to soften stools and increase bowel movement frequency. Bulk-forming. These laxatives contain fiber which soaks up the water in your intestines and produces bulkier stool. Larger stool makes the bowel contract and push out the stool.

Can I take osmotic laxatives every day?

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.

Which type of laxative is considered the safest?

Laxatives work in different ways, and the effectiveness of each laxative type varies from person to person. In general, bulk-forming laxatives, also referred to as fiber supplements, are the gentlest on your body and safest to use long term. Metamucil and Citrucel fall into this category.

Who should avoid saline laxatives?

Warnings: Rarely, serious kidney problems have occurred with the use of this product. Heart failure, kidney disease, bowel problems (such as blockage, ulcerative colitis), or being older than 55 years can increase the risk.

What are the 4 types of laxatives?

There are 4 main types of laxatives.Bulk-forming laxatives. Bulk-forming laxatives work by increasing the "bulk" or weight of poo, which in turn stimulates your bowel. ... Osmotic laxatives. ... Stimulant laxatives. ... Poo-softener laxatives.

When are osmotic laxatives used?

Osmotic laxatives are mainly used for: Constipation. Hepatic encephalopathy (the loss of brain function when a damaged liver does not remove toxins from the blood.) Bowel preparation before a surgery.

What is the best laxative that works fast?

Stimulant laxatives such as Senokot (made from senna pods) and Dulcolax (active ingredient: bisacodyl) are the fastest-working oral laxatives, with overnight results. They stimulate the muscles lining your gut, helping to move things along.

What is the best laxative for the elderly?

Osmotic laxatives such as polyethylene glycol (brand name Miralax) are well-tolerated by most older adults, and can be used daily.

What laxatives do hospitals use?

Bisacodyl is a laxative. This type of medicine can help you empty your bowels if you have constipation (difficulty pooing). Bisacodyl is also used in hospitals to help you empty your bowels before surgery or some examinations or treatments. Your hospital will explain how to use it.

Is Dulcolax an osmotic laxative?

Dulcolax contains bisacodyl, a stimulant laxative. It works by increasing the activity of the intestines to cause a bowel movement....What are the main differences between Dulcolax and Miralax?Main differences between Dulcolax and MiralaxDrug classStimulant laxativeOsmotic laxative7 more rows•Jul 6, 2020

Is Metamucil a osmotic laxative?

Metamucil and Citrucel are bulk forming laxatives and fiber supplements versus Miralax which is an osmotic laxative. Even though Metamucil, Citrucel, and Miralax are all laxatives, they work in different ways in your body. Both classes are used to provide relief from constipation.

When should osmotic laxatives be used?

Osmotic laxatives are mainly used for: Constipation. Hepatic encephalopathy (the loss of brain function when a damaged liver does not remove toxins from the blood.) Bowel preparation before a surgery.

Is MiraLAX an osmotic laxative?

Osmotic laxatives, such as MiraLAX®, attract water and keep it in your colon. This action allows MiraLAX® to hydrate and soften stools, and unblock your system without causing harsh gastrointestinal side effects.

What is the best laxative for constipation?

Types of laxatives. Osmotic laxatives relieve occasional constipation by gently drawing water into the bowel. This provides softer stools and increases the frequency of bowel movements. Phillips' ® offers a range of saline osmotic laxatives to provide comfortable, overnight relief from occasional constipation.

Why do laxatives have fiber in them?

Bulk-forming (fiber) laxatives contain fiber that uses the water in your intestines to make your stool bulkier. A larger stool makes the bowel contract, which eventually forces the solid waste out. It's very important to take bulk-forming agents with water to avoid side effects, including bloating and gas.

How do stool softeners work?

This is accomplished by increasing fluid in the stool, which helps soften fecal material. Doctors suggest stool softeners for people who should avoid straining while having a bowel movement.

Does laxative help with constipation?

A laxative helps loosen your stool and/or increases bowel movements to help relieve occasional constipation. There are many different types of laxatives that work in different ways. Although the number of choices may be confusing, there is a laxative out there that's right for you to help you get back to regular.

WHAT ARE OSMOTIC LAXATIVES?

You may notice that the word “osmotic” is pretty close to “osmosis,” which means we’re talking about the movement of water. Osmotic laxatives, such as MiraLAX ®, attract water and keep it in your colon. This action allows MiraLAX ® to hydrate and soften stools, and unblock your system without causing harsh gastrointestinal side effects.

Is Miralax a laxative?

Osmotic laxatives, such as MiraLAX ®, are generally well-tolerated and have very few side effects. Studies have shown that MiraLAX ® increases bowel movement frequency with less straining and improves stool consistency. If gastrointestinal side effects do occur, they are usually mild and transient. Jin J. JAMA. 2014;312:1167.

Do osmotic laxatives work?

The use of an osmotic laxative like MiraLAX ® can help relieve occasional constipation.

Can you mix Miralax with water?

Some of the products that fall under this category are pre-mixed liquids, some are tablets you chew up and swallow, and some are powders, e.g., MiraLAX ®, which you mix into 4-8 ounces of a liquid before drinking. MiraLAX ® can be mixed into any beverage, hot or cold. Some examples include coffee, tea, water, orange juice, iced coffee, ice water, coconut water, smoothie, iced tea and seltzer.

How do osmotic laxatives work?

Osmotic laxatives work through “osmosis” — which is to say that they draw water into the intestinal lumen and colon. Imagine the intestines as a tube. The lumen is the space inside. In the case of occasional constipation, the lumen isn’t empty; it’s blocked up with fecal matter.

What are the side effects of osmotic laxatives?

One of the most common side effects of osmotic laxatives is electrolyte and fluid imbalances in the body. [ 5, 7] Dry skin, fatigue, increased heart rate, and stress on the kidneys are common manifestations of dehydration. [ 8] . What’s more, long-term use of osmotic laxatives can harm your gut microbiota.

What are the ingredients in saline laxatives?

Saline laxatives may include one or more of the following ingredients: magnesium hydroxide, magnesium sulfate, magnesium citrate, sodium phosphate, and sodium sulfate. Some saline laxatives are available over the counter. Your doctor may prescribe them before surgery.

Do osmotic laxatives cause bloating?

Most people who use osmotic laxatives don’t describe it as a comfortable experience. Conversely, painful gas and bloating are more common than not. Many people also cite a feeling of weakness and lethargy. [ 5]

How to maintain bowel movement?

Without adequate water, bowel movement regularity is impossible. Whatever your body weight is in pounds, drink half that amount in ounces per day to stay hydrated.

Can laxatives make you feel uncomfortable?

Some laxatives are harsh and make you feel uncomfortable. They can also present other more serious side effects, especially with long-term use. In this article, we’re going to look at osmotic laxatives and explain why you should think twice before using them.

Can you take laxatives without a prescription?

Laxatives are available without a prescription, frequently advertised on TV, and often presented like a trusted and reliable old friend. But laxatives are not the best way to relieve your bowels — whether you have occasional or chronic constipation. Some laxatives are harsh and make you feel uncomfortable.

What is the best laxative for bowel movements?

Another option would be a magnesium-based laxative , such as milk of magnesia or magnesium citrate. These are members of a larger class of laxatives called saline osmotics, which draw water into the bowels and trigger bowel movements. The active ingredients include magnesium, sulfate, citrate, and phosphate.

How long does it take for a laxative to work?

Bulk-forming laxatives draw water into stool, making it softer and easier to pass. But don't expect instant gratification: these can take a half-day to several days to provide relief. They are safe to use daily.

How to prevent constipation from irregularities?

"You should be sure you are eating a fiber-rich diet, drinking adequate fluids, and staying physically active ," says Dr. Jacqueline Wolf, a gastroenterologist and associate professor of medicine at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. But when you do have constipation, start with the gentlest and safest option, like a bulk-forming laxative. If laxatives don't work, ask for help. "You should see your doctor and discuss it if you are constantly needing to take laxatives," Dr. Wolf says. "People shouldn't have to take laxatives every day."

Can you take saline osmotic laxatives long term?

The active ingredients include magnesium, sulfate, citrate, and phosphate. But don't take more than the recommended amounts of these laxatives, or use them long-term, because they can throw off your chemistry. Combined with an underperforming kidney or heart failure, saline osmotic laxatives can be dangerous.

Can you take mineral oil with stool softener?

Don't take mineral oil at the same time as stool softeners. Take 1 tablespoon at breakfast or lunch. But don't use it for more than a few days, because mineral oil interferes with absorption of some vitamins and if inhaled it can cause pneumonia. Consider wearing a protective pad in your undergarments to absorb any leakage.

Can stimulant laxatives cause bowel movements?

Stimulant laxatives such as bisacodyl and cascara trigger contractions in the bowels that push the stool along. "When bowel movements are slow, some people really do need stimulant laxatives," Dr. Wolf says. The first choice she recommends is a senna-based stimulant laxative. But if you take stimulant laxatives too often, you could become dependent on them to have a bowel movement at all—possibly because the bowel is not functioning normally.

What is the strongest laxative?

Stimulant laxatives are the strongest type of laxative. They directly stimulate nerves in the large intestine, helping the body to push out stool more quickly. Two common ingredients in stimulant laxatives are bisacodyl and sennosides.

What are laxatives used for?

There are several other types of laxatives, including: 1 Fiber supplements such as psyllium or methycellulose. You may use these to treat occasional constipation and to help your body get more fiber. 2 Osmotic laxatives, which help to increase stool bulk by pulling fluid from the body into the intestines. Polyethylene glycol is a common ingredient in osmotic laxatives. 3 Stimulant laxatives are the strongest type of laxative. They directly stimulate nerves in the large intestine, helping the body to push out stool more quickly. Two common ingredients in stimulant laxatives are bisacodyl and sennosides. These usually work the quickest but also have more potential side effects, such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

How many people have constipation?

In fact, 16% of all adults and 33% of adults over age 60 have symptoms of constipation, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Many people think of constipation as difficulty having a bowel movement.

How long does it take for a laxative to work?

The truth is that the length of time to get things moving varies. You may experience a difference within just hours. Or it may take a couple of days using a laxative before you have a change to your bowel movements. Read the packaging to get more guidance on how long it should take to work, Houghton advises. [.

How long does constipation last?

Your constipation lasts more than a few weeks. In addition to constipation, you have weight loss, fatigue, severe abdominal pain or black stool. You have a pattern of constipation that lasts a short time, goes away for a while and then comes back. You have regular constipation issues and you’re over age 50.

What is the best way to get rid of constipation?

Fiber supplements such as psyllium or methycellulose. You may use these to treat occasional constipation and to help your body get more fiber. Osmotic laxatives, which help to increase stool bulk by pulling fluid from the body into the intestines. Polyethylene glycol is a common ingredient in osmotic laxatives.

Do laxatives work?

These usually work the quickest but also have more potential side effects, such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Although prescription-strength laxatives are generally more powerful than over-the-counter ones, laxatives sold over the counter still often help people break the constipation cycle, Lebwohl says.

What is the active ingredient in a laxative?

Bulk-forming laxative. Active ingredients: psyllium, methylcellulose, and calcium polycarbophil. How it works: It forms a gel in your stool that helps hold more water in your stool. The stool becomes bigger, which stimulates movement in your intestine to help pass the stool more quickly.

What are some examples of laxatives that can interact with other laxatives?

For example, mineral oil can interact with stool softeners. Examples of drugs that can interact with other laxatives include: oral contraceptives. the heart failure drug digoxin. the hormone estradiol. the blood thinner warfarin. drugs used to treat high blood pressure, such as: chlorothiazide. chlorthalidone.

How does stool softener work?

How it works: It helps wet and soften the stool. Considerations for use: Stool softeners are gentle enough to prevent constipation with regular use. However, they’re the least effective option for treating constipation. They’re best for people with temporary constipation or mild, chronic constipation.

What is stool softener?

A laxative is a substance that you use to help you have a bowel movement. A stool softener is a type of laxative, called an emollient laxative. So, all stool softeners are laxatives, but not all laxatives are stool softeners.

What is a laxative that draws water into the intestines?

Hyperosmotic laxative. Active ingredients: polyethylene glycol and glycerin. How it works: It draws more water into your intestines. This helps soften the stool to help it move more easily. Considerations for use: Hyperosmotic laxatives can also be used for longer periods with little risk of side effects.

How long can you take laxatives for constipation?

You shouldn’t use them continuously for longer than one week without talking to your doctor. Find a selection of hyperosmotic laxatives here.

How does stimulant laxative work?

How it works: It stimulates and increases the movement of your intestines. Considerations for use: Stimulant laxatives also should not be used on a regular basis. When used regularly, they can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Find a selection of stimulant laxatives here.

What happens when you use osmotic laxatives in the intestine?

The result of using osmotic laxatives in the intestine is to draw water into the lumen of the intestine, resulting in softer and more easily passed stools.

How do osmotic laxatives work?

Normally, solid material passes through your small intestines during digestion, and whatever is left eventually finds its way into your colon (large intestine). Constipation occurs when the waste cannot easily pass along your colon, often resulting in straining, infrequent small stools, and discomfort. 1 . ...

What is the process of osmosis?

That's where osmotic laxatives come in. Osmotic laxatives are small particles (proteins, fibers, or sugars) that promote the net movement of water into the lumen of the colon through a process called osmosis, which refers to the passive flow of water between compartments (lumen and intestine in this case) with a goal of balancing ...

Why does my colon absorb water?

In contrast, when you're dehydrated, the wall of your colon may be inclined to absorb water from the lumen of the colon, thereby making any stool present there harder and more difficult to pass. The amount of water that flows in either direction is largely based on maintaining a balance between the concentration of water in your colon and ...

What is a laxative for constipation?

Paul A. Rufo, MD, MMSc. Updated on November 29, 2019. Osmotic laxatives are a type of stool softener used in the management of constipation. Osmotic laxatives come in over-the-counter and prescription forms, and they work by increasing the flow of water into the intestines to produce softer and easier-to-pass stools.

How does water move in the colon?

Water is free to move between the lumen, or tube of the colon, where the stool passes the blood vessels in the wall of the colon. The net direction in which water moves in the colon is determined by the relative concentrations of water in the lumen and in the wall of the colon. When you're well-hydrated, fluid can more easily move from the wall of the colon and into the lumen, thereby softening any stool that's present. In contrast, when you're dehydrated, the wall of your colon may be inclined to absorb water from the lumen of the colon, thereby making any stool present there harder and more difficult to pass.

What to do if you have constipation?

If you have chronic constipation, you should see your healthcare provider to determine if testing is required to evaluate you for conditions that can present as stooling irregularity, such as thyroid and celiac diseases. Your healthcare provider can provide a treatment plan that includes medications, as well as dietary and lifestyle changes, to help manage your constipation.

What is saline enema (Fleet Enema)?

Saline enema (Fleet Enema) is an osmotic laxative. As a salt, it pulls water into your intestines (gut) and causes it to squeeze and relax to help empty your bowels.

What are the risks and warnings for saline enema (Fleet Enema)?

Saline enema (Fleet Enema) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options