There are several types of laxatives. Laxatives are usually prescribed for treating constipation1
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Osmotic laxatives (like polyethylene glycol, lactulose, or sorbitol):
These laxatives help your bowel take in extra water from the rest of the body, which softens your poo and makes it easier to go to the toilet. Osmotic laxatives can take 2–3 days to work.1
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Stimulant laxatives (like senna or bisacodyl):
These stimulate the muscles around your intestine and help them to move the poo along. Stimulant laxatives can take 6–12 hours to work.1
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Stool softener (like docusate):
Stool softeners can help with the straining as they make your poo softer, which makes it easier to move it along your intestine. It’s important when taking a stool softener for OIC that you drink plenty of water. These can take 1–3 days to work.1
