Top 20 Laxatives for Seniors – An In-Depth Analysis

 

If you’re on the lookout for the best laxative for the elderly and their digestive needs, this is where you’ll find plenty of cheap and quick acting recommendations based on honest opinions from experts. We’ve carefully scanned the market for all types of laxatives for seniors, from osmotic to plant-based ones, so you have another solution at hand if the one you initially picked fails you. Dr. Schulze’s Intestinal Formula made it to the top of the list since it has an all-organic recipe, which incorporates the best and the most efficient natural active substances. It relies upon the power of Curacao, and on the Cape Aloe leaf to power up your enteric muscles and to promote a physiological bowel movement, even if taken regularly. If unfortunately, this item is out of stock, we offer you the Ex-Lax Maximum Strength Sennosides as an equally valuable alternative to treat your intestinal discomfort.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

20 Best Laxatives for the Elderly (Reviews) in 2024

 

The best laxatives for senior citizens are very varied when it comes to the mechanism of action. There isn’t just one that’s good, reviews of laxatives for seniors suggest because it is more about what works for you. Down below you have the best options the market has to offer to patients who have lived in pain and who have struggled with constipation their whole life.

 

 

Best natural laxative for constipation

 

1. Dr. Schulze’s Colon Bowel Cleanse

 

If you suffer from chronic constipation, you don’t have to give up your favorite activities because of discomfort anymore. This product is all-natural, and it is designed to aid your gastroenteric muscles and to promote their natural contraction. It also encourages the bile to flow and not stagnate in the gallbladder.

It is a bowel cleaner that can be used for a range of intestinal conditions like irritable bowel syndrome and dyskinesia. It also soothes your digestion, especially after you’ve had a heavy meal. The biomedicine alleviates gastro-intestinal distension and promotes healthy blood flow to your digestive organs.

All the ingredients, which include Curaçao and aloe leaf, Oregon grape root, garlic and habanero peppers, are organic and pesticide-free and perfectly good for your health. The pills can be taken daily without any issues whatsoever. If the symptoms get worse than before taking this medicine, do not avoid calling your G.P. Some highly sensitive people did mention that they felt bloated after ingesting the pills, but that is not a typical occurrence.

The good thing about this healthy mix of herbs is that it doesn’t have any side effects and that it’s a laxative which acts quickly after ingesting it, meaning you won’t have any surprise hours after you took it.

Pros

This product is designed to fit the needs of those of us suffering from chronic constipation, as its all-natural formula is carefully balanced so that the product can be used as often as needed.

The supplement supports the digestive system due to its high-quality ingredients that include Aloe leaf, Oregon grape root, habanero peppers, garlic, and Curaçao.  

All of these carefully selected ingredients help alleviate symptoms in the case of irritable bowel syndrome, dyskinesia, and gastro-intestinal distention, making your life a lot easier and healthier.

This product also acts as a laxative soon after you have taken it, due to its healthy mix of herbs, therefore you can quickly get on with your daily activities, not having to worry about prolonged effects.

Cons

Some people stated that they felt bloated after using this supplement, especially those who have extra sensitive digestive systems. Therefore, medical advice and supervision are always the way to go when taking such supplements.

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2. Ex-Lax Maximum Strength Sennosides

 

This product contains 48 tablets which work as a laxative for gentle and occasional constipation. They were created for overnight constipation treatment so they will be a good fit for those who deal with this issue, especially since they were created to have a “maximum strength” type of incentive, so to say, on your body.

Each tablet weighs 25 milligrams. Dosing them shouldn’t be a problem for anybody as they don’t require any kind of mixing and they don’t leave any kind of a mess. They are part of the overnight laxative category that usually comes with results within 6 to 12 hours. It is recommended that you take one or two tablets once or twice every day.

The treatment requires that you take them at bedtime and it can only be used by adults and children over the age of 12. The pills include 40 milligrams of calcium and 5 milligrams of magnesium.

Pros

The product has a maximum strength kind of impact so that it will surely put the bowels in motion and offer you a guarantee that the treatment will work as soon as possible.

The effect of the pills can be felt quite fast, between 6 and 12 hours later, so that you won’t have problems with your sleep as a result of the laxative starting to have an effect.

It is very easy to follow the treatment with these pills as they do not require mixing with anything else and they also don’t leave a mess when you swallow them.

The treatment is easy to follow as you only need to take one or two before bed, every night.

Cons

The pills can cause stomach cramps during the night, especially for female users it seems, so you should take into consideration your stomach resistance before starting the treatment.

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3. Senna Plus Natural Vegetable Laxative with Stool Softener

 

This 100-tablet product is an excellent way to fix your intestinal conditions. It is gentle with your already stressed organs, and it delivers a quick solution to your constipation issues, due to the incorporated stool softener. It stimulates the peristaltic movements of the colon, and it works just as efficiently even when used daily.

The gentle laxative is especially beneficial if you have recurrent dry stools, and if you suffer from a chronic illness like IBS or celiac disease. It can harmlessly be used in combination with any other drug since it is made from natural ingredients, and its side effects are minimal to none.

If you need something to help you on a regular basis, there aren’t too many options that can provide as many reasons to buy it than this model. And the organic composition is balanced by a reasonable price that could prove itself to be hard to overlook in a market filled with unbalanced options.

Reviewers praise this health supplement because it doesn’t traumatize your gut, but instead it pushes the stool gently without leaving you breathless and tired after you’ve used the toilet. It is recommended that you take at least two tablets in twenty-four hours, as people noticed that sometimes you need more for the desired results.

Pros

This product makes an excellent choice in case you suffer from recurrent dry stools or a chronic illness, such as celiac disease or IBS. 

The supplement’s formula is gentle with the digestive tract while delivering an efficient solution to constipation issues, as it stimulates the colon’s peristaltic movements and the high Senna content makes it act as a stool softener.

All of these features make this product safe to use on a daily basis without the risk of losing its efficiency. 

The product comes in 100-tablet bottles that are quite convenient, especially to those who make this supplement a part of their daily routine and are looking for the best possible price.

Cons

Although the manufacturer recommends taking one tablet a day, even in the case of chronic constipation, some users stated that sometimes you need more to get the desired results; therefore, taking two tablets in 24 hours proved to be much more efficient.

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4. Detox 535 South African Cape Aloe Ferox Pills

 

This potential buy is something that does its job from the first tablet that you ingest. Just take one or two, and you will feel its effect almost instantly. It only contains the pulp of the Aloe plant, so the taste will feel natural and not bitter as products that use the leaves of the plant taste.

It’s an organic supplement which gives you a helping hand with constipation, and that will reduce the tension in your bowels, thus eliminating the pain you feel when you don’t go to the toilet for many hours in a row. It also contains no gluten or pesticides, and all the ingredients are GMO-free.

This medicine’s capsules are made of gelatin, and all the colorants are just as natural as the product itself. If you suffer from constipation, recurrent or not, this item should not miss from your medicine cabinet. It is especially handy during the holidays when we tend to overeat and when our digestive system is a bit lazier than usual.

You can avoid ingesting heavy chemicals and drugs that come with an endless list of side effects with this natural option. It is something to take into consideration.

Pros

This product gets the job done as soon as you take the first pill as it contains just the Aloe plant pulp, unlike other products that contain the leaves.

This tasty organic supplement helps reduce tension in your bowels and ease the associated pain, due to its all-natural ingredients that do not contain any gluten nor pesticides, and that are GMO-free.

The product comes in the form of gelatine capsules that look and taste good, making this supplement one to be considered, especially when you are looking to avoid traditional constipation medicine, that may contain chemical substances.

The bottling is of 60 capsules, quite convenient even for those that do not use them daily and it comes in handy during holidays, when we tend to overeat and not exercise as much.

Cons

The recommended dose depends on the person’s condition and body weight; therefore, you may need to take more than one capsule at a time for the product to work properly. 

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Best herbal laxative

 

5. American Health Tam Laxative

 

This famous brand promises to deliver a natural and non-traumatizing result against constipation. It fructifies the inherent properties of centaury herbs, papaya leaves, and peppermint, which together are beneficial because they are antispasmodic, calming, and they prevent gas from forming inside your intestines.

It uses lemon verbena, which tones up your musculature, parsley, and anise, and the manufacturer also uses many other ingredients to create tablets that have a rich taste and that are easy to swallow. This is why this brand is one of the favorites among chronic users.

Its natural ingredients are revered because they don’t have any toxic effects and thus the product can be consumed chronically. This property is a blessing for those who’ve been cursed with lazy intestines. People and nutritionists as well have recommended it for those who want to do a colon cleansing once a year.

Pay attention if you develop cramps, as remote incidents have happened. Unlike other products, this one has a limited list of them, but it doesn’t mean it is impossible to develop one. If that is the case, address your physician as soon as possible.

Pros

This product uses the properties of papaya leaves, peppermint, and centaury herbs to deliver an all-natural result in the case of constipation.

All of these ingredients have a calming, antispasmodic effect and they prevent gas from forming inside the digestive tract, especially in the intestinal section of it.

The manufacturer uses many high-quality ingredients to create these tablets that are tasty and easy to swallow, thus making the lives of chronic users a lot easier.

The lemon verbena this product contains tones up the musculature, while the parsley and anise give this supplement its rich taste.

As it is made out of all-natural ingredients, this supplement has no side effects nor any chemical additives to it.

Cons

Some users stated they suffered from mild abdominal cramps shortly after taking these tablets, which may be a natural side effect of the bowel movement, or it may indicate this product is not the best choice for you.

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6. 100% Herbal Laxative Capsules + Probiotics Natural 

 

There is a reason why herbal products are so popular – because they are non-toxic, and because you don’t develop tolerance to their properties as fast as with chemicals. And the fact that this product is 100% made from herbs and plants should be a hint as to why it is so familiar to consumers.

It is mostly labeled for occasional users, and the manufacturer recommends you ingest one or two capsules with plenty of water before going to bed. But it can also be taken for fifteen consecutive days if you’re planning to do a cleanse. It is not recommended that you repeat the cleansing without a two-month break in between the programs.

Specially designed for your digestive health, the pills are rich in fibers and non-GMO herbs and plant extracts. These will make you feel energized and light even after a heavy meal. Forget about a sluggish digestive tract and about giving up exercising because you feel bloated since this product will help with all of that.

It doesn’t cause gastric distress, and it shouldn’t make any underlying symptom worse. If you experience any new symptoms, it is best that you immediately stop taking this medicine.

Pros

This product is mostly designed to address the needs of occasional users as the manufacturer recommends you take one or two capsules before going to bed, with plenty of water.

Since this is an all-natural, herbal formula, there are no unwanted side effects to taking this supplement. However, it is not advised to be taken for more than fifteen consecutive days.

The supplement is rich in fibers, non-GMO herbs, and essential plant extracts that will help maintain the health of your digestive tract while making you feel light and energized after every use.

This product also acts as a colon cleansing formula, when taken daily for up to two weeks, and the 60-capsule packaging helps with not having to constantly go out to get some more capsules.

Cons

If you notice constipation symptoms after taking this supplement, or that you experience new symptoms, then you need to seek medical advice and guidance.

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7. Puritan’s Pride Herbal Laxative

 

Occasional constipation is something that plagues most modern humans due to our chaotic lifestyle. We don’t exercise, we don’t eat enough fibers, and we forget to drink water, all things which eventually harden our stool. That’s why we need to supplement our diets with a product like the Herbal Laxative Tablet.

It contains no harsh synthetics, no sugar or preservatives, and all the ingredients come from organic sources which are grown without pesticides. All the flavors are natural, and the product can be ingested even by those who are allergic to gluten or lactose intolerant.

If you combine this item with a balanced diet, you will never need to worry about a bloated abdomen or pain while defecating. It has all the features of something that can potentially become a staple in your house, and it will make your gut as happy as an enema would, but without all its complications.

Some people have said that they would’ve preferred the product to come as capsules and not tablets. However, the fact that you don’t need many at a time and because their shape is well rounded shouldn’t make taking them a struggle even if you need them more than once.

Pros

This supplement is designed to work as an auxiliary aid combined with a balanced diet and lifestyle to prevent bloating and constipation from ever showing up in our lives.

The modern busy lives we live sometimes lead to imbalanced diets, lack of exercise and lack of water consumption, which all lead to intestinal health issues.

Here is where this product comes in handy, as it is made out of natural herbal ingredients, it does not contain any sugars or preservatives, and the large 250-tablet packaging makes it suitable for long-term use.

This product is safe to be used even for those that are lactose intolerant or suffer from gluten allergies, as it is made out of non-GMO herbs and plants.

Cons

Some people would prefer it if this supplement came in the form of capsules instead of tablets as they feel it would make them easier to swallow.

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8. Herbal Colon Detox and Laxative Supplement

 

This is a system that will allow you to detoxify your body entirely and to cleanse your colon at the same time. Even if you have a regular bowel movement, it is a well-known fact that your colon can accumulate hardened stool that in time could irritate its mucosa thus leading to abdominal pain and bloating.

This formula that comprises of eight natural ingredients, carefully selected by a team of scientists, and which includes Aloe, probiotics, and Senna, helps lubricate your large intestine and to propel the bits of stool that are embedded on its surface.

You get the desired results in one or two days, but it can take up to fifteen whole days for a complete detoxifying cycle. At the end of your first detox session, you will feel much lighter and cleaner inside and out.

The risks of this product are almost none, but you need to be careful and to pay extra attention to your stool. If you see blood in it, or if you’re developing diarrhea even a few days after you’ve stopped taking the supplement, make sure to contact your doctor. Moreover, some people also complained that they developed cramps and nausea when they took the product for too long.

Pros

This product is designed as a colon cleansing supplement, even for those of us that have normal, regular bowel movement. 

It is a widely known fact that the colon can accumulate toxins and stool particles, that over time may lead to irritated colon, abdominal pain, and bloating.

This supplement’s formula consists of eight carefully selected natural ingredients, which include probiotics as well as Aloe and Senna that help lubricate your intestines and propel any embedded stool bits.

A complete detoxifying cycle using this product can take up to two weeks but it will leave you feeling lighter and more energized; however, you may start feeling better after the first two or three days.

Cons

There are no risks associated with taking this supplement; however, you need to pay attention to your stool throughout the cleansing period. 

Moreover, if you experience any abdominal cramps or nausea, it may be an indicator you have been taking the product for too long.

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Best laxative suppository

 

9. Dulcolax Laxative Suppositories

 

Laxative suppositories are some of the fastest acting laxatives on the market because they act locally, without having to travel across the entire digestive tract. Combine that speed with the patented recipe of a famous and respect brand like Dulcolax, and you get a product that will make most people happy.

It works with both constipation and irregularities almost instantly. You have to administer them via your rectum, but that will be more comfortable than it sounds due to its ergonomic shape. The main active ingredient it contains is Bisacodyl, and it promotes a healthy bowel movement in less than fifteen minutes.

Each suppository is individually wrapped for easy access and storage, which also makes them great for traveling because you can take as many as you’d like without them melting in your bags. The manufacturer has extensive experience, and most doctors all around the world trust the brand.

However, just like with any laxative, different people have different reactions to them. Some people who’ve used the product accused cramping and diarrhea. If that happens, try to reduce your dose in half and give it another chance. If the symptoms don’t disappear, stop taking the product.

Pros

Laxative suppositories, in general, are one of the fastest-acting laxatives out there as they act locally, not having to work their way across the entire digestive tract.

This product combines the fast action of local treatment with their patented recipe of carefully selected ingredients to provide you with the most efficient available solution.

The ergonomic shape these suppositories come in makes them easy and comfortable to use, promising a positive outcome in less than fifteen minutes.

The main active ingredient this product contains is Bisacodyl; also, the safe-to-use individual wrapping makes it easy to store.

Cons

Just like any other laxative, people may react differently to the product; therefore, if you experience any discomfort, abdominal cramps, or diarrhea, you need to stop using this product.

Moreover, if the product does not work as described, you need to seek medical advice and guidance, as the health issue you are facing might be different.

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10. Bisacodyl Rectal Generic

 

This generic option might prove to be just as competent as any brand laxative, but for a price that doesn’t make anyone second guess if they should buy it or not. The main active ingredient makes enteric muscles contract, meaning your digested food won’t stagnate, and it won’t make you feel like you’re going to throw up or regurgitate.

This option is safe to be used by paralyzed individuals or by other people who sit in the same spot for long intervals of time such as accountants and drivers. It is best if you take this product occasionally and not daily, as it can lose its effectiveness against constipation and irregularity.

The suppositories need to be inserted rectally at least half an hour before you want to have a stool so that you won’t have any surprise if you leave the house.

The package is easy to open, and the shape is comfortable enough not to cause any pain when delivered to your large intestine. Make sure you keep the suppositories in a dry place because they can potentially melt if held in direct sunlight. If abused, they can cause mild diarrhea.

Pros

This generic product comes with a hard-to-beat price tag to it and will prove to be just as efficient as any brand laxative.

The main active ingredient causes the enteric muscles to contract, thus preventing any undigested food from stagnating in your digestive tract.

This product is safe to use and efficient for paralyzed patients, or for people that spend long periods of time without moving too much.

It usually takes about half an hour for the product to have the desired effect, so you’ll get almost instant relief.

Cons

Always keep the suppositories in a cool and dry place because they will melt if exposed to heat or direct sunlight.

It’s best not to use this product daily, as the organism will become used to the main ingredient and it might stop responding to it. Also, in the case of overusing them, you may experience mild diarrhea.

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11. Fleet Glycerin Adult

 

When you are in a hurry, and you need something fast acting, this shouldn’t miss from your bag. This product is a standout because it is liquid, meaning it will be much easier to be administered than a chunky solid suppository.

It is suited for adults, and after you insert them, it takes about fifteen to twenty minutes to produce a non-painful bowel movement. It is one of the fastest acting suppositories on the market due to its innovative design and formula. It does all the things the brand product does, but with a price tag that your wallet won’t even feel.

This model is especially useful if you have hemorrhoids because it is so much softer than other products around. Make sure you drink plenty of water to enhance its effect, and to help your colon produce more mucus for more natural defecations. Also, use the applicator from the box so insertion will feel more comfortable.

As far as side effects are concerned, Fleet Glycerin doesn’t have that many. Just like with all medicine, make sure you are not allergic to the active ingredient. If you develop a fever or severe pain in the rectum area, discontinue the treatment and call your doctor.

Pros

This product is different from most other similar products available on the market because it comes in liquid form, which makes it an excellent choice for those of us that suffer from hemorrhoids, as it is much easier to be administered than solid suppositories.

The product is suited for adults only, and it will take about twenty minutes for the desired effect to take place. 

The innovative formula and design make this product one of the fastest-acting ones, and all that at a hard-to-beat price.

The package comes with a special applicator for comfortable administration, that should be used according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Moreover, drinking plenty of water will enhance the product’s effect while helping your colon produce more mucus. 

Cons

There are no major side effects associated with using this product; however, if you experience discomfort in the rectum area, or you come down with a fever, you need to seek medical advice at once.

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Best laxative over the counter

 

12. MiraLAX Powder Laxative

 

Side effects are feared by all; that’s why we need to invest in products that have very few ones, like this one from MiraLAX. It neutralizes chronic constipation, especially if you eat fast food, and if you live a sedentary lifestyle. It should not replace exercising and a healthy diet, but if you are someone who lacks time to do that, this item can work wonders.

It amplifies and increases the frequency of the peristaltic waves, meaning you will be able to go more often to the toilet to defecate, without having to put effort into it. This thing translates into less pain and in a decrease in the chances that are going to develop hemorrhoids and anal fissures.

The product contains enough powder for forty-five doses, and with the help of the bottle cap, you can correctly adjust the 17g need for one dose. You can say goodbye to bloating and cramping unless you are one of the unlucky ones who rarely developed side effects.

All its results are clinically proven, and it can be used with both cold and hot beverages. Do not take it more than seven days straight, and sometimes change it with another type of laxative, so you avoid getting used to its osmotic properties.

Pros

This product works wonders for those of us that live sedentary lives, with very little exercise and not benefiting from a balanced diet.

The way it works is that it increases and amplifies the frequency of peristaltic waves which immediately translates into normal bowel movements, preventing bloating, abdominal pain, and rectal health issues, such as anal fissures and hemorrhoids. 

The powder content in the package is the equivalent of 45 doses, and it can be easily measured using the bottle cap.

Research showed that the product works just as well when used with cold beverages as it does in the case of warm, or even hot beverages.

Cons

It is not advised to use this product for more than seven consecutive days, and it is also a good idea to sometimes alternate it with other similar products, to prevent the body from getting used to the main ingredient and its osmotic properties. 

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13. Colace 2-in-1 Tablets

 

This laxative combines the best of both worlds: a premium stool softener and a gentle stimulant laxative, which will provide overnight relief, allowing you to sleep comfortably and without feeling like your belly is going to explode if you move. You will wake up relaxed and heading straight towards your toilet.

The tablets are designed to deliver excellent results when it comes to occasional constipation, and it will feed and power up the smooth muscles of your intestines so they can do their job without forcing them, as traditional therapy does. These tablets allow you to eliminate stools in around six hours, also depending on your diet.

The manufacturer has over sixty years of experience, so you know the product is refined and efficient from the first dose. It is even suitable for patients who suffer from hemorrhoids or slow-healing anal fissures, as the stool won’t be rigid. Thus, it will hurt less while eliminating digested food.

It makes defecation less of a burden, as it should be. All of these features make this item a perfect alternative to overpriced brand names, and like all laxatives, you need to pay attention if your symptoms are getting worse instead of better.

Pros

This product is both a stool softener and a gentle stimulant laxative, as it provides overnight relief, allowing you to get a comfortable good night’s rest while it works its magic.

The product is designed to alleviate occasional constipation in a natural way by feeding and powering up the intestinal muscles, without forcing bowel movements, as traditional therapy does.

It takes about six hours for the product to work, also depending on your regular diet, so this is important to keep in mind while you are planning your daily activities.

This is a refined and efficient product that comes from a manufacturer that has over sixty years of experience, thus providing a high-quality product at a very competitive price.

Cons

In case you notice that your symptoms are getting worse instead of better you need to contact your doctor as soon as possible, as there might be a different health issue involved.

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14. MiraLAX Laxative Powder

 

Don’t let constipation prevent you from enjoying traveling. With the aid of this supplement, you can make sure you have a quick solution for your lazy intestines anywhere you go. The ten pre-measured packets will make your life so much easier since all you’ll have to do is rip the single-dose container, pour it in some water, stir and then drink it.

It doesn’t get easier than this, and since it is also highly efficient, you will be happy and satisfied that you can experience the local cuisine without having to pay for it later. It will respect the physiology of your digestive system meaning your stool will look natural and healthy.

It has a slower release, from anywhere from twelve to twenty hours, and it is recommended that you only drink one a day. It can be safely ingested even if you suffer from chronic constipation, and it will help you avoid awkward and painful enemas or addictive drugs.

Double-check that you’re not allergic to any of the ingredients, and avoid taking this product every day as it might lead to weight loss and vitamin deficiencies, especially in liposoluble vitamins like A or D.

Pros

This product is easy to use as it comes in pre-measured packets that will make your life a lot easier, especially if you are traveling and need to use them.

The only thing you need to do is to rip the single-dose packet and pour it in water, stir well and drink up.

The formula is a slow-release one, taking anywhere from twelve to twenty hours for it to work; therefore, you need to plan your time well, but the highly effective ingredients will provide you with the desired effect.

It is also safe to be used by those of us that suffer from chronic constipation; however, it is not advised to take more than one pack per day.

Cons

It’s always a good idea to double-check that you are not allergic to any of the product’s ingredients.

Moreover, overusing this product may lead to vitamin deficiencies in the long run, so watch out for that.

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15. Clearlax Polyethylene Glycol

 

A high-quality osmotic laxative can be hard to come by, especially if prices matter to you. But this brand combines all of your wishes, and it is highly efficient with occasional constipation or irregularity. And all that you are required to do is to dissolve the powder in your favorite beverage and drink it. This is great, especially since the grit-free powder is unflavored.

The bottle cap can act as a measuring unit which is very handy when it comes to measuring the 17 grams you will need for one dose. Just add it to the beverage and stir thoroughly. It is recommended that you only drink this product once a day to avoid losing too many nutrients.

As a recommendation, try not to use this powder more than seven days in a row. You can take a few days off so you can rest your guts, and then use it again with caution.

As a precaution, make sure you are not allergic to the primary active ingredient polyethylene glycol, and that you don’t suffer from any kidney dysfunction. And if you have side effects such as vomiting, persistent diarrhea or abdominal pain for more than two weeks, make sure you consult your doctor.

Pros

This is a high-quality osmotic laxative at a very competitive price, that has proved to be very efficient in the case of occasional constipation. 

All you need to do is dissolve the unflavored powder in your favorite beverage and drink it by using the bottle cap as the measuring cap. 

The daily dose is one bottle cap, which is the equivalent of 17 grams of powder, and it will take several hours for the product to deliver the desired result.

You don’t have to take this laxative for long periods, as it’s recommended to only take it once a day for no more than seven consecutive days, to prevent any unwanted side effects that can go as far as you losing nutrients through your stool.  

Cons

You may want to make sure you are not allergic to any of the product’s ingredients, especially the main one which is polyethylene glycol.

Also, if you experience any nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal cramps, it’s best to seek medical advice.

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Best laxative tea

 

16. Yogi Tea Soothing Mint

 

Mint is famous for its pain and stomach burn relieving properties, and this tea takes advantage of that while adding some extra ingredients to offer you the complete experience. Moreover, it can act pretty quickly, so make sure you won’t have to leave the house soon after drinking this tasty ginger tea.

It is just as efficient as charcoal against bloating, indigestion and acid reflux, but it should not replace any therapy your doctor prescribed to you. It is something that can be drunk regularly, and all its ingredients are from organic crops.

It is the ideal tea if you need a little push and something that will give back the lost strength of your intestines. It is caffeine-free, and its outcome will feel natural, and your entire abdominal area will feel relaxed and tension free. The tea is known for the fact that it stimulates the peristaltic waves that propel the stool out of the body.

While it can make some unlucky drinkers bloated and even accentuate their underlying symptoms, these side effects are quite rare. In addition, keep in mind that it contains small amounts of black pepper, which can promote inflammation, especially if you suffer from Crohn’s disease or rectocolitis.

Pros

The carefully blended mix this tea contains will help ease any abdominal pain or stomach burn while gently helping with constipation.

It can act quite fast, thus it’s best not to make plans of leaving the house soon after drinking the tasty ginger tea this product provides.

The product contains all-natural ingredients that come from organic crops, and it can be successfully used on a daily basis. However, it should not replace a balanced diet or any prescribed medication.

As a plus, the product is caffeine-free, meaning you can also enjoy a cup in the afternoon or late evening hours.

The packet contains 16 tea bags which should last you approximately two weeks.

Cons

Some users stated that constantly drinking this tea made them mildly bloated, and, as it contains black pepper in rather small amounts, the product can promote inflammation; therefore, people with rectocolitis might want to stay away from it.

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17. Traditional Blends Smooth Move

 

This is a product that combines the lovely experience of drinking tea, with the ease you feel after your constipation disappears. It is a herbal stimulant which is carefully blended, so it won’t prove itself toxic in the long run, and it is also an excellent alternative to swallowing a chunky pill.

The dietary supplement contains no dangerous drug, and it relies on the best organic elements nature has to offer. The Senna leaf is so powerful that a single serving will be enough to put your bowels to work and the stool running. Its effect is proven, and cramping and irritation will be reduced almost instantly.

Additionally, the producer included fennel orange, cinnamon, and coriander in the recipe to expand further its effect and to make it delicious at the same time, with its slightly bitter kick. One tea bag is enough to put in a hot cup of water for ten or fifteen minutes.

It is essential that you don’t abuse the product, as it can lead to malabsorption and consequently, to weight loss. Unlike traditional drugs, this one doesn’t lead to addiction. If you suffer from severe intestinal conditions, ask your doctor before taking this product.

Pros

This product makes an excellent alternative to swallowing pills to free yourself from constipation as it combines the pleasant experience of drinking tea with the desired laxative result.

The Senna leaves this tea contains is a gentle yet very powerful laxative that will get your bowel moving after you’ve enjoyed the first cup of tea.

Moreover, due to its carefully selected ingredients, this product will help alleviate cramping and irritation very quickly.

The manufacturer included cinnamon, coriander, and fennel orange in the recipe to give it a pleasant taste while further expanding the tea’s positive effect on the overall health.

Cons

It is very important not to drink too much of this product, as overusing it for long periods of time may lead to weight loss and even malabsorption.

Unlike traditional medication, this product will not become addictive; however, it’s best to seek medical guidance before using the product over extended periods of time.

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Best laxative pill

 

18. Bisacodyl Laxative Coated Tablets

 

If you’re scanning for an alternative to the pricey Dulcolax, that is just as efficient but costs a fraction of what the brand product would cost you, then read about this product. It offers overnight relief and two tablets a day is enough for both adults and children over six years old to provide the desired effect.

It offers a gentle weapon against constipation and other types of irregularities, and since the bottle comes with a thousand tablets, you will never run out of something to rely on when your digestive system acts out. Ensure by reading the ingredients list that you are not allergic to the active substances and do not overuse the product.

It will make your life more comfortable, as you won’t have to avoid certain foods anymore. The price is reasonable too if you take into account the fact that it comes with so many pills.

If you start to have bloody or watery stools, go to a gastroenterologist for further examination. It is safe to be taken if you have irritable bowels, or if you want something that has a slower release so that you can be covered throughout the entire day.

Pros

This product offers an excellent alternative to other pricier products of the same category, and the great thing about it is that it is also suitable for children aged 6 and above.

It offers overnight relief and you should get the desired result when taking two tablets per day, helping your digestive tract regain health. 

The bottle contains 1000 tablets, which should last you a very long time, hence you will always have them in handy when you need something to gently fight your constipation.

Moreover, the product’s formula is designed for frequent use; however, you need to make sure you do not overuse this product, to prevent any unwanted side effects.

Cons

You should read the ingredient list before taking this product, to make sure you don’t risk any allergic reactions.

Also, if you experience any side effects, such as diarrhea, cramps, or bloody stool, you need to seek medical help.

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19. Perdiem Overnight Relief

 

This pack will provide a long-term solution to your digestive issues. It comes with sixty easy to swallow pills, which you will have to take with plenty of water. The medicine is recommended for both adults and children over the age of twelve. Seniors can also ingest it without worrying that the active ingredient will interact with other drugs.

Moreover, it is safe even if you suffer from conditions such as IBS and Crohn’s disease. It is a rare find on the market because everyone has something good to say about it. It has proven its efficiency for years, and as time passes, it has fewer side effects.

Also, it won’t make your stools explosive but will give them a somewhat natural consistency, which is what you want. It will also aid you with bloating, abdominal distention, and it will make you feel like you can enjoy life again without always feeling full and tired.

It is not recommended that you take this product every day. Instead, try to take it when needed, with as many breaks as possible. This way, you will reduce the slim chances that your intestines will get used to it, and that you won’t lose any nutrients.

Pros

This product is designed to provide your digestive system with a long-term solution, and the great thing about it is that it suits both adults and children above the age of twelve.

The pack contains sixty tablets that are quite easy to swallow and should always be taken with plenty of water, making this product an ideal choice to always have around.

The product is safe to be used by those of us suffering from health conditions such as Crohn’s disease and IBS, and also for our seniors that do not need to worry about this product interacting with their prescribed medication.

The manufacturer puts in a lot of resources to constantly improve this product; therefore, as time passed it was proved to have fewer and fewer side effects. 

Cons

This product is not designed for everyday use. It should be taken only when needed, as overusing it might cause you to experience some unwanted side effects, such as diarrhea or explosive stools.

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20. Dulcolax Laxative Tablets

 

The secret weapon that the tablets use is Bisacodyl, which is known for the fact that it stimulates the peristaltic waves to propel the stool out of the body, for an overnight relief which leads to no surprise. A single pack contains fifty 5mg tablets, and that is the ideal dosage for someone who suffers from long-term enteric pathologies.

Dulcolax is a brand trusted by many American doctors, and it is used even in hospitals around the world. Since it’s an overnight product, the effect will be gentle, so if you need a quick solution, this is not it. But something as long-acting as this is much healthier because your muscles won’t be strained.

The bowel movement will be present in the morning if you take this before you go to bed, and it will also help you with irregularity, and even with that annoying nausea people feel after overeating.

Before taking this product, make sure you read the label and the ingredients list, to see if you are forbidden to take any of them. If you do not see results from the first try, double your dosage, as constipation treatments work in different ways for everyone.

Pros

The main ingredient this product contains is Bisacodyl, which is widely known for stimulating the peristaltic waves to help propel the stool.

The product comes in a pack of fifty tablets, each containing 5mg of the active ingredient, making this medicine an excellent choice in case of chronic enteric disorders.

Since it is an overnight product, the effect it produces will be gentle and will not provide the users with any unwanted surprises; therefore, you can plan your day as usual.

This product will help alleviate some of the annoying symptoms associated with constipation, such as abdominal cramps, nausea, or feeling full all the time.

Cons

You need to carefully read the ingredient list before taking this medicine, just to make sure you will not get an allergic reaction to it.

Moreover, in case the product does not provide the desired result, try taking two tablets, as each individual will react differently to the product.

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Our Yearly Guide

 

Educating yourself on what best drugs to treat constipation are, what types of laxative you can find on the market and which works best with your pathology is vital. Health is not something to be taken lightly, so make sure you invest the proper time into reading about this topic.

To aid this tedious process, we’ve researched the Internet for the must-have features of a product from this category, to make sure your constipation will be taken care of. Things like brands and prices should not matter, elderly laxatives reviews tell us.

Stuff like ingredients, fewer side effects and how natural a product is, should have priority over trivial matters. Down below, you have all the criteria that the perfect medicine for you needs to have.

 

Osmotic, stimulating or stool softeners agents?

Osmotic laxatives are some of the most popular good laxatives for seniors. They come with a non-absorbable sugar which attracts the water from your tissues to your colon – or osmosis, as this process is called, hence the name. This water mixes with the stool and makes it softer and smoother to propel. Just like prune juice does, but more efficiently.

If you want something from this category, look for products that use polyethylene glycol, like MiraLax. There is a significant number of prescription drugs that use the same pattern, but they can be toxic if not recommended by a specialist, and you can become almost addicted to them.

Those work better when you are in the hospital, under supervision. Products that incorporate polyethylene glycol are safe even if taken daily.

Stimulating agents act on the colon’s musculature directly. Products that contain Senna and Bisacodyl stimulate the enteric muscles, meaning they work better with more severe symptoms and cases that are acute rather than chronic. It is not unsafe to use them daily, but you can develop resistance to the active ingredient at some point.

Softening agents are recommended for mild cases of constipation, as they just soften the stool and help with the mucus production. They are widely prescribed, but not very efficient if taken on their own.

 

What about fibers?

Fibers are also called bulking agents because they promote stool formation and a healthy bowel movement. If you add plenty of grains to your diet and if you drink at least two liters of water a day, you shouldn’t have problems such as constipation and bloating anymore.

However, this dietary remedy is not enough, especially for someone who is always on the run and never has time to cook and to buy foods that are rich in this element. That’s why you should buy a supplement that acts as a laxative, and that has plenty of fibers too.

This is essential for older adults who have aged colons, which are lazier when it comes to moving the stool around, and for those who often forget to drink water. Products which are rich in psyllium can be found on the market, and they are quite good and recommended by both doctors and reviewers. Moreover, they are considered healthy laxatives for the elderly.

Keep in mind that you can take these supplements in combination with a healthy diet. They don’t cancel each other out. Also, you should know that they can cause gas, especially in the beginning of your treatment, but that shouldn’t scare you.

Bring something else to the table

Other things that people forget they can help you digest your food better are probiotics. They usually contain good bacteria which release chemicals that help break down your food into smaller pieces which can be absorbed into your bloodstream by the enteric cells.

You can find items for sale that combine laxatives with probiotics, which can be great especially for chronic users. If this option is not available, look for a high-quality probiotic and take it at the same time as your laxative.

If you still aren’t satisfied with your results, you can combine a laxative tea with a mild-acting tablet and a probiotic. If you don’t see a difference even at this point, make sure you go to a hospital and see a doctor, especially if you didn’t have a stool in more than three days.

 

What else?

Every doctor will tell you that these pills cannot do all the job by themselves and that you will need to pay more attention to what you are eating. Try to include more vegetables and cereals into your diet, especially for breakfast, and to get some exercise if you live a sedentary lifestyle that requires you to sit for extended periods of time on your chair.

And if you feel the need to go to the toilet, don’t suppress that feeling and act on it. Moreover, do not take laxatives daily if your doctor didn’t recommend it to you or if there’s no need for it. Unless you suffer from chronic constipation, start with milder products and if they are inefficient, go for something stronger.

There’s no point in taking a dose larger than recommended if a product is not working as you’d like it to. Just change the type of laxative, as the market is abundant with options for you to choose from and use.

As a different option, you can perform a gentle enema if everything else fails. But do not try to combine a strong laxative with an enema, as this could be too much for your colon and it can lead to worse symptoms and many complications. In conclusion, there isn’t just one best type of laxative, it’s all a matter of how your body will react to a product.

 

If you liked reading this article, maybe you’d like to check out some of our others:

• Best osteoporosis treatments
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Bibliography:

1) Causes of constipation in the elderly

2) Constipation in older adults

3) Treatment of Constipation

4) How to Evaluate, Prevent & Manage Constipation