Ranking of the best laxatives for 2024

Choosing a laxative is not as easy as it sounds. The ubiquitous advertising promises to quickly get rid of the problem in literally one application, but it is important to take into account many factors so as not to harm your health and not cause addiction to the drug. Next, we will consider the different types of laxatives and their effects, so that each reader can choose exactly the drug that suits him.

Which laxative is better to choose

In case of gastrointestinal poisoning, rare constipation in people of different ages, specialists recommend osmotic drugs for use. They retain water in the intestine and thereby increase the osmotic pressure, which contributes to the rapid movement of feces outward. These medications work for 1 to 2 hours after ingestion, but may cause loose stools or nausea.

If constipation is constant with age-related atonic changes in the intestine or as a result of prolonged use of medications, then plant fibers, diphenyl, anthraglycosides will help - all those drugs that contribute to the softening of feces in the intestine and its output. When taking such drugs, a course of treatment is necessary and relief comes after 7-8 hours - you can take it at night.

With such a painful problem as hemorrhoids, it is categorically impossible to use fast-acting drugs for constipation, as this will only increase pain and cause tissue rupture with bleeding. In this case, it is better to use medicines based on plant fibers or prebiotics.

Women who are in a state of pregnancy at any time should not use anthraglycoside or osmotic laxatives. Therefore, it is better to use products with lactulose, which will not harm either the mother or the child and at the same time very well restore the timely emptying of the intestines.

Ranking of the best laxatives for 2024

The best laxatives that act on the receptors of the intestinal mucosa

Means containing anthraglycosides and diphenols act on the intestinal receptor apparatus and can cause defecation 7-8 hours after ingestion.

These drugs do not interfere with the absorption of nutrients and vitamins in the intestines, so they can be used repeatedly for chronic constipation.The main disadvantage of taking such drugs is the appearance of gas formation in the intestines and addiction.

Dulcolax, Boehringer Ingelheim International GNBH (Germany)

Dulcolax coated tablets from a German manufacturer contain 5 mg of the active ingredient bisacodyl and various technical components. This drug is often prescribed for hypotension of the large intestine and prolonged constipation, as well as for instrumental examination of the intestine or preparation for surgery, including for children from 4 years old.

A safe daily dose is 1–2 tablets for children over 10 years of age and adults.

Since the drug contains a small amount of beeswax and castor bean seed oil (castor oil), with continuous use, negative effects such as loose stools, intestinal cramps or dizziness are possible.

• not aggressive, soft impact;
• achievement of the result within 6-8 hours after administration;
• can be taken in courses;
• recommended for children over 4 years old;
• contraindications are rare;
• very affordable price.

• cannot be used during pregnancy;
• can be addictive.

It is best to take Dulcolax just before bed to get the desired effect in the morning.

"Senokot"

A very effective laxative preparation, in the form of film-coated tablets, made on the basis of senna. Approved for use by children over 2 years old and adults. The drug enhances the movement of feces 6-12 hours after the first dose. Children from 2 to 12 years old can take 1 tablet once or twice a day. Adults 1 to 4 tablets in one or two doses for severe constipation.

If you exceed the indicated dosage of the drug, it can cause vomiting, allergies, cramps in the intestines and stomach.

It is also not recommended to use Haycotte for pregnant women, because it can cause miscarriage and uterine bleeding.

People with cardiovascular disease should take this laxative with caution and only after consulting their doctor.

• natural composition based on senna;
• can be taken in courses for a long time;
• subject to the dose indicated in the instructions, minimal side effects;
• long-term action;
• recommended for children from 2 years old.

• should not be used by pregnant women.

Haycot is one of the most natural and mild laxatives recommended for chronic constipation.

Herbion Laksana, KRKA d.d. (Slovenia)

Herbion Laxana is a natural laxative in the form of tablets containing the active ingredient - 33.5 mg of senna. The action of the drug gives the result within 8 hours after the initial use.

It is best to take 1-2 tablets before going to bed. The drug can be taken in courses of no more than two weeks. If constipation persists, it is best to seek medical advice.

This drug can be taken by children after 12 years of age, but you need to consider possible negative side effects in the form of possible addiction.

• natural eco-friendly composition;
• very delicate impact;
• well suited for course treatment;
• in recommended doses almost no harmful effects;
• low cost.

• can be addictive with very long use;
• should not be used by pregnant women.

Attention! Herbion Laksana categorically cannot be used after abdominal operations, complete or partial intestinal obstruction, various stomach diseases in the acute stage for pregnant women. When using, strictly monitor the exact dosage to avoid such negative phenomena as: stomach pain, loose stools, allergies and possible dehydration.

Best osmotic laxatives

The principle of action of osmotic laxatives is based on the attraction of water from cells using a salt derivative.With this effect, the volume of what is in the intestine increases, its walls are stimulated to contract, the masses become softer and come out freely.
With the help of such funds, a quick effect is achieved, but they should not be taken for a long time. Otherwise, the salt balance will be disturbed, which can lead to the body being dehydrated.

Moscow pharmaceutical factory "Lavacol"

With the help of granules used to prepare a solution containing macrogol and salts, they increase the osmotic pressure in the intestine. Granules also give the effect of peristalsis.

The drug should be taken in adults if there is irregular constipation. Dosage: 2 sachets per day. 1-3 hours after ingestion, a laxative effect occurs, the duration of which can reach up to 2 days. The drug is not recommended for minors if there is dehydration or gastric ulcer, heart failure or intestinal obstruction.

The drug prescribed by the doctor is used for a maximum of 1 month. It is not recommended to use it independently for more than 2 days. Do not use the drug when the patient is pregnant or breastfeeding.

• taking the drug once, you can avoid side effects;
• quick achievement of the effect;
• suitable for use before surgery or for examination with an X-ray.

Cost: 200 rubles.

• clinical data on the safety of the substance in the composition are few.

A large dose, close to the maximum, can be prescribed by a specialist when preparing a patient for an operation or examination, when it is necessary for the intestines to be free of contents as much as possible. It is optimal to take the remedy in 1-2 sachets, which is with infrequent constipation.

Valenta Pharm "Exportal"

A drug with an osmotic laxative effect is recommended for use if there is constipation, liver encephalopathy, dysbiosis. Form of application - powders, which contain 500 g of lactitol monohydrate.

In the intestinal environment, an organic acid is obtained from the agent by transformation. With its help, the fecal masses are softened, they become larger and leave easily. The remedy has more than a laxative effect. It is a stimulant in which acidophilic bacteria multiply, during which the intestinal microflora normalizes.

The drug can be taken by adults and children who are 1 year old and older. The minimum dose per day is 5 g, the maximum can be taken 20 g of the substance. If the dosage is exceeded, the patient will experience diarrhea, dizziness and dehydration. Compared to other drugs, Exportal does not act immediately, but after 12-24 hours.

• the drug is given to children from 1 year old;
• it is prescribed before surgery or examination;
• can be applied in episodes;
• effective remedy.

• does not work immediately.

The drug is prescribed to eliminate constipation that occurs irregularly in a child, an adult with a violation of the intestinal microflora.

Best Laxatives with Plant Fiber

As part of these products, a whole plant bouquet, consisting of cereals, fruits, plants containing fiber. They form feces and provide normal intestinal motility. These drugs do not pose a danger if taken continuously in case of chronic constipation, have a detox effect, are responsible for the normalization of microflora, and prevention of stones that form in the gallbladder region.

PharmaMed "Fitomucil Norm"

To make the powder, crushed plum and plantain seeds are used. These plants are rich in dietary fiber that normalizes intestinal motility. In the body, it becomes a gel, softening the secretions, which are then painlessly removed from the body.

The remedy is prescribed for children whose age has reached 3 years. It can be taken by women in position, and the elderly, patients who are overweight, dysbiosis, obesity, hemorrhoids or chronic constipation.

The drug is taken on an ongoing basis, the dose is from 1 to 4 teaspoons, which are washed down with a glass of liquid before or after a meal. Natural ingredients eliminate side effects. But do not take the remedy if there is intestinal obstruction or acute inflammation or disease of the gastrointestinal tract.

• prescribed in the complex of obesity treatment;
• contains safe natural ingredients;
• regular reception is possible;
• contraindications are minimal;
• has a mild laxative effect;
• carries out the normalization of intestinal microflora.

• lack of instant effect.

Suitable for everyone, as it is considered a safe dietary supplement and normalizes intestinal functions.

Evalar "Fibralax"

The product contains plantain seeds. Admission form - powder. Treatment for episodic constipation can be done in children, the elderly, and pregnant women.

Reception of the powder product, packaged in individual packages, is carried out by 1 powder. The maximum number of appointments is 3 per day. To cure symptomatic constipation, the drug is taken for 2 days. Chronic constipation heals within 4 weeks.

It is not recommended to take the drug if you have diabetes or allergic reactions to active substances. When taking the product, it is recommended to drink at least 2 liters of water per day.

• long lasting effect;
• reception can be carried out in episodes and on an ongoing basis;
• in the composition - herbal ingredients;
• there are no side effects;
• withdrawal of feces without pain;
• minimum of contraindications.

• achieving the effect not immediately, but after 16-24 hours.

The remedy painlessly removes feces in case of hemorrhoids or anal fissure.

Defi Healthcare Intestinorm

The product contains vegetable dietary fibers that have a detoxifying effect and a mild laxative effect. The powder contains crushed plantain. The tool is suitable for the treatment of chronic constipation, allergies and itching, obesity.

The form of the product is sachets, which provide a one-time intake. The powder is dissolved in 200 ml of liquid and drunk before or after a meal, washed down with water. It is necessary to carry out 2-3 such receptions during the day.

The minimum age for taking the product is 14 years old. May be taken by pregnant and breastfeeding women. The tool not only stimulates peristalsis, it has antidiarrheal and anti-inflammatory effects.

It is a safe food supplement that has no side effects, but should be avoided if you have intestinal obstruction or type 2 diabetes.

• there is no addiction;
• as part of components of plant origin;
• contraindications are minimal;
• long-term action;
• has a mild and relaxing effect.

• lack of instant effect.

The drug is used in the treatment of constipation in those patients who, for a number of reasons, cannot use synthetic drugs.

Ranking of the best emollient laxatives

These drugs improve peristalsis, promote softening and excretion of feces, and reduce gas formation.

The main components of such drugs are glycerin and plant oils. They are used as needed, relieve discomfort in rare (non-chronic) constipation.

Recommended in the postpartum period, for patients who have suffered a heart attack or seriously ill (bedridden) patients.

Drugs cannot be taken constantly, since the components in the composition slow down the absorption of nutrients, increase the risk of developing gastrointestinal oncology.

Glycelax

Rectal suppositories from the Russian pharmaceutical company MosPharma. Thanks to the glycerol in the composition, it softens the feces at the same time irritates the walls and stimulates intestinal motility. Acts quickly and effectively (after about 20 minutes).

The drug is indicated for use in all types of constipation, once as needed. The maximum period of use according to the indications of the attending physician is 7 days. Dosage - 1 suppository per day (if necessary, the dosage is increased to 2).

Glycelax should not be used for hemorrhoids in the acute stage, tumors and inflammation of the rectum. And also during pregnancy, since stimulation of the uterus is possible.

• fast effect;
• time-predicted result;
• has no side effects;
• acceptable price.

• no prolonged effect;
• many contraindications.

Glycelax relieves unpleasant symptoms quickly and safely with occasional use. Regular use can lead to addiction, disruption of the natural process of defecation.

Candles Castor

Castor and cocoa butter is usually included in medicines intended for quick relief from poisoning, constipation. It is also used as a cleansing agent prior to medical diagnostic procedures.

Castor suppositories from the pharmaceutical company "Materia Bio Profi Center" have an analgesic, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory effect. The effect of the application occurs within half an hour.

Single dosage: 1-2 suppositories. Duration of use - no more than 3 days. The drug is contraindicated in children under 12 years of age, patients with chronic constipation, peptic ulcer disease, abdominal pain of an unknown nature. And also with inflammation in the abdominal cavity, intestinal and uterine bleeding.

• quick help;
• efficiency;
• antispasmodic effect.

• cannot be used permanently.

Castor suppositories are a drug that additionally has antimicrobial properties. It is used as an alternative to osmotic drugs in the preparation of the intestine for diagnostics and surgical interventions.

Laxatives with lactulose

Preparations with lactulose in the composition do not have a quick effect, while normalizing the bowel function. Influence the change in the flora of the colon, increase the number of lactobacilli. Do not irritate mucous membranes, Do not interfere with the absorption of nutrients and do not cause addiction.

Suitable for pregnant women, as they do not increase the tone of the uterus.

Dinolak

Combined drug from Otisfarm JSC. The main active ingredients are lactulose and simethicone. It normalizes the intestinal microflora, has a mild laxative effect, does not cause increased gas formation, unlike analogs.

It is produced in the form of a suspension, suitable for pregnant and lactating women, children. Patients with diabetes mellitus should consult with their doctor before taking. You can not use the drug for nausea, vomiting, pain in the abdomen of unclear theology.

Dosage for children - no more than 5 ml per day, adults - up to 45 ml. The duration of admission depends on the symptoms, age and is selected individually.

Prolonged excess of the recommended dosage can lead to dizziness, diarrhea, and allergic reactions.

• efficient and affordable;
• possible reception during pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• no addiction;
• normalization of bowel function;
• does not cause flatulence.

• to achieve the effect, a course reception is required.

Dinolac is a drug that is indicated for chronic constipation, to alleviate the condition after surgical interventions.

Lactulose Forte

The combined complex with natural herbs in the composition from Evalar is available in the form of a sachet with a suspension for single use.Recommended for increased gas production, chronic constipation in adults and children from 3 years old. The dosage is 1-2 sachets per day. Duration of treatment is 10 days.

Contains: lactulose, lactitol, fennel and chamomile extracts. The combination of medicinal herbs and lactulose provides anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, carminative action. Promotes softening of feces, improves peristalsis, does not violate the natural intestinal microflora.

The effect of the application usually occurs on the 2nd day and persists after the drug is discontinued.

• combined, safe composition;
• complex, therapeutic effect on the gastrointestinal tract;
• long-term action;
• convenient format for receiving;
• suitable for children.

• not suitable for quickly relieving symptoms.

Lactulose Forte is a prebiotic that has a beneficial effect on the intestinal microflora, with an additional laxative effect. Suitable as an additional agent in the complex treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, as well as for preventive purposes.

The best drugs to treat constipation in children

Gas, colic and constipation are common symptoms that cause pain and discomfort in babies.

The choice of laxatives for babies and children under 3 years old must be approached responsibly. The drugs should not provoke addiction, which results in lazy bowel syndrome.

Self-medication for frequent or chronic constipation in babies is dangerous and requires medical attention. And the following drugs will help to quickly relieve painful sensations in case of episodic problems with the intestines.

Johnson & Johnson "Microlax"

Microclysters for children from Johnson & Johnson are indicated for use by children from the first days of life. Quickly and effectively relieve pain associated with constipation.

The drug is available in the form of a solution, used rectally. Contains: sorbitol, sodium citrate, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate.

The active ingredients stimulate the flow of fluid into the intestines, which helps to soften the feces and, as a result, painless discharge 10 to 15 minutes after the procedure.

Mikrolax is a quick help for a baby. It has no contraindications and side effects. It is not recommended to use the drug for more than 2 days without consulting your doctor.

• quick relief of symptoms;
• suitable for babies from the first days of life;
• has no side effects;
• provides a quick and painless bowel movement.

• can not be used regularly without medical advice.

Microlax is suitable as an emergency aid for babies. Gives a quick positive effect, relieving pain and colic.

Syrup Pomogusha

Sweet syrup from the Russian manufacturer LLC Yug has a mild laxative effect, does not contain alcohol and GMOs. Additionally enriched with vitamins. The drug is intended for children from 3 years old. Contains: lactulose, vegetable raw materials (fruits of anise, caraway seeds, strawberry leaves), as well as infusion of cherries and apples.

The syrup regulates the motor functions of the intestines, reduces gas formation, and helps to normalize the intestinal microflora. It also improves digestion and has a mild laxative effect.

The syrup is taken as a course - 1 teaspoon 3 times a day for 2 weeks. The effect appears on the 3rd day after the start of admission. A safe product that combines lactose, herbal ingredients and vitamins has no contraindications except for allergies to the components that make up the composition.

• complex action;
• natural composition;
• pleasant taste;
• reasonable price (about 100 rubles);
• therapeutic effect that persists after cancellation;
• an additional source of vitamins.

• the course requires 2 packs;
• does not give a quick effect.

Syrup "Pomogusha" is recommended for the treatment of chronic constipation in babies from 3 to 6 years old, which are caused by a violation of the intestinal microflora.

We have described the working and popular drugs, however, we recommend in any case to make the choice of the drug after consulting a doctor.