![]() Stimulant laxatives are usually taken on an empty stomach for rapid effect. Mineral oil is usually taken at bedtime (but not while lying down) for convenience and because it requires about 6 to 8 hours to produce results.įor patients taking laxatives containing a stimulant ingredient: Mineral oil should not be taken within 2 hours of meals because of possible interference with food digestion and absorption of nutrients and vitamins. Therefore, large doses of saline laxatives are usually not taken late in the day on an empty stomach.įor patients taking laxatives containing mineral oil: When a smaller dose is taken with food, the results are delayed. When a larger dose is taken on an empty stomach, the results are quicker. ![]() Saline laxatives usually produce results within 30 minutes to 3 hours following a dose. Polyethylene glycol may not produce laxative results for 2 to 4 days. Lactulose may not produce laxative results for 24 to 48 hours. The unpleasant taste produced by some hyperosmotic laxatives may be improved by following each dose with citrus fruit juice or citrus-flavored carbonated beverage. A second glass of water or juice by itself is often recommended with each dose for best effect and, in the case of saline laxatives, to prevent you from becoming dehydrated. This will provide enough liquid for the laxative to work properly. However, this may not occur for some individuals until after 3 to 5 days.įor patients taking laxatives containing a hyperosmotic ingredient:Įach dose should be taken in or with a full glass (8 ounces) or more of cold water or fruit juice. When taking a product that contains only a stool softener, results usually occur 1 to 2 days after the first dose. Liquid forms may be taken in milk or fruit juice to improve flavor. However, this may not occur for some individuals until after 2 or 3 days.įor patients taking laxatives containing a stool softener (emollient): When taking a product that contains only a bulk-forming ingredient, results often may be obtained in 12 hours. A second glass of water or juice by itself is often recommended with each dose for best effect and to avoid side effects. Each dose should be taken in or with a full glass (8 ounces) or more of cold water or fruit juice. To allow bulk-forming laxatives to work properly and to prevent intestinal blockage, it is necessary to drink plenty of fluids during their use. Mix with liquid following the directions on the product label. This will help make the stool softer.įor patients taking laxatives containing a bulk-forming ingredient:ĭo not try to swallow in the dry form. Just a spoonful of castor oil.With all kinds of laxatives, at least 6 to 8 glasses (8 ounces each) of liquids should be taken each day. Clinics in Colon and Rectal Surgery, 25(1),12-19. ![]() (2012).Medical management of constipation. Laxatives:OTC Products for Constipation.An examination of the effect of castor oil packs onconstipation in the elderly. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. ![]() Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations.
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