What are the common side effects of Laxatives

One of the most commonly purchased prescription or non prescription drugs are laxatives. This just proves how many people tend to suffer from constipation. When people suffer from constipation they tend to go for laxatives as the easy way out.

Although laxatives are really effective in most cases of constipation sometimes there can also be certain side effects which you should be aware of. In this article let us look at some of the possible side effects of laxatives and the conditions where you should be careful about using laxatives.

1. IBS - IBS or irritable bowel syndrome is a condition which is caused by over sensitivity of the intestines or the nerves in the intestine region which make it difficult to control the bowels. It can have extreme reaction from constipation to diarrhea. In case of IBS some of the laxatives may make the condition worse. In case of IBS please talk to your doctor if the treatment is going to be effective.

2. Allergy to Laxative - Sometimes you may have allergy to laxatives such as metamucil which mainly contain psyllium husk. In case of allergy you may suffer from vomiting or headaches. Solution would be to go for natural remedies for constipation such as eating fruits like apples which are useful in constipation releif.

3. Other side effects - Some laxatives may also have some side effects which are dangerous. In 2007 Zelnorm was found to increase the risks of heart attacks which was eventually withdrawn from the market. Go for laxatives which are reliable and in the market for a long time and proven.

Usually it is safer to go for natural treatments like home remedies for constipation as they are safer, tried by thousands of people with unbiased opinion and good for you.