
You may experience bloating and gas along with the laxative effect, however.Īnother option would be a magnesium-based laxative, such as milk of magnesia or magnesium citrate. These essentially trigger a mild case of the runs. Another option that works for some people is diet candies containing the sweetener sorbitol. Common side effects are gas, bloating, and nausea. These products hold water in stool to soften it and increase bowel movements. If stool softeners aren’t providing enough help, the osmotic laxative polyethylene glycol (MiraLAX or a generic version) is good next step. Consider wearing a protective pad in your undergarments to absorb any leakage. 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. Don't take mineral oil at the same time as stool softeners. Mineral oil, a lubricant, helps stools "slide on by" if the stools feel stuck low in your bowels, if you have an internal tear or "fissure," or if you have pain from hemorrhoids during bowel movements. Stool softeners add moisture to stools to make them softer and easier to pass. They may be marketed as laxatives or as fiber supplements. 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.

But don't expect instant gratification: these can take a half-day to several days to provide relief. First choice: bulk-forming laxativesīulk-forming laxatives draw water into stool, making it softer and easier to pass. You should see your doctor and discuss it if you are constantly needing to take laxatives. But when you do have constipation, start with the gentlest and safest option, like a bulk-forming laxative. You should be sure you are eating a fiber-rich diet, drinking adequate fluids, and staying physically active. Occasional irregularity is a fact of life, but you can minimize it with some basic steps. For timely examination, advice and treatment of digestive diseases, you can contact Vinmec Health System nationwide or register online on the website for service.įor more information or register for an appointment HERE.ĭownload MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.If constipation becomes chronic, don't keep playing laxative roulette. Department of Endoscopy - Gastroenterology is one of the key specialties at Vinmec International General Hospital. Patients with gastrointestinal abnormalities, it is best to consult a doctor before deciding to treat with any drug. The above information is for reference only. Constipation is normal at times, but sudden or prolonged changes in your bowel habits could be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. They can help you identify the source of your constipation and suggest alternative treatment options. See your doctor if magnesium citrate and lifestyle changes don't relieve your constipation. Your constipation could be a sign of a more serious underlying health condition. Contact your doctor if you notice side effects or do not have a bowel movement. What is the outlook? After taking magnesium citrate for constipation relief, you should expect the laxative effect to begin in one to four hours. If your infant or young child is constipated, your doctor may recommend other treatment options. Magnesium citrate is not recommended for children under 3 years of age.

If your child is 3 to 6 years old, ask your doctor about the right dosage for them. Talk to your doctor to find out if these standard dosages are safe for you or your child. Younger children, aged 6 to 12 years, can usually take up to 150ml of magnesium citrate oral solution with 250ml of water. Adults and older children, 12 years of age and older, can usually take up to 300ml of magnesium citrate oral solution with 250ml of water.

People often use Magnesium tablets as a regular mineral supplement to increase magnesium levels. If you're taking magnesium citrate for constipation, choose an oral solution. Magnesium citrate is available as an oral solution or tablet, sometimes combined with calcium.
