How Do Lubricant Laxatives Work?

Lubricant laxatives are a type of laxatives mainly used for treating constipation, as they make the stool slippery. They lubricate the intestinal wall and stool mass by coating them with a waterproof film layer, preventing the feces from drying out. Besides, lubricant laxatives decrease water absorption by the intestine which helps the stool to retain moisture. As a result, the stool remains soft, and its passage is made easy.

As lubricant laxatives make the stool slippery, they are mainly used to treat:

• Constipation
• Fecal impaction (large, hard mass of stools that gets stuck in the colon or rectum)

Some lubricant laxatives may also be used as antacids.

Lubricant laxatives, when taken orally, can cause these side effects:

• Anal seepage (accidental passage of stool from the anus)
• Pruritus ani (a persistent and often intense itch around the anus)
• Perianal discomfort (pain in and around the anus)
• Abdominal cramps
• Rectal discharge
• Intestinal malabsorption
• Nausea
• Vomiting

The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.

Generic and brand names of lubricant laxative drugs include:

• Fleet mineral oil enema
• Kondremul plain
• Magnesium hydroxide/mineral oil