Laxative

A laxative is a preparation used for encouraging defecation, or the elimination of feces. Laxatives are most often taken to treat constipation. Certain stimulant, lubricant, and saline laxatives are used to evacuate the colon for rectal and bowel examinations. They are sometimes supplemented by enemas.

Related Topics:
Defecation - Feces - Constipation - Colon - Rectal - Enema

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Laxatives are often abused by bulimics or anorexics. Laxative abuse is a problem that is potentially very serious since it can lead to problems such as intestinal paralysis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and pancreatitis, among others.

Related Topics:
Bulimics - Anorexics - Intestinal paralysis - Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Pancreatitis

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There are several types of laxatives, listed below. A type not listed is the combination laxative, which simply means that the laxative has more than one ingredient, with a combination of effects. Laxatives may be oral or in suppository form.

Related Topics:
Oral - Suppository

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It is interesting to note that, while there is no gender based medicine to ease constipation, advertisers tend to promote some brands as being "More for a lady" than others.

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