WHEN TO TAKE A LAXATIVE
Constipation is defined as infrequent, irregular or incomplete bowel movements. Pain and straining from the passage of hard, dry stools is frequently associated with constipation, as are excessive gas and bloating.

If travel, eating on the run or small changes in your diet, fluid intake or exercise regime have slowed your bowels, just getting back on your regular schedule may help you return to a normal bowel routine.

But when diet and lifestyle changes are not enough, or when your constipation is the result of a medication you need to take, laxatives may be an appropriate treatment. There are several options (described below) to consider when choosing an appropriate laxative. Bulk-forming and stimulant laxatives both act to move stools through your intestines. The addition of a stool softener is helpful when constipation is accompanied by difficult or painful evacuation.

BULK LAXATIVES
Bulk-forming laxatives contain wheat bran, cellulose, psyllium or other dietary fiber that pass through the digestive system undigested, but which accelerate peristalsis by increasing stool size and weight. Ingesting adequate fluid is necessary if these fiber-based laxatives are used. And while these bulk-forming laxatives may help you establish regularity, they usually take from 12 hours to several days to work.

STIMULANT LAXATIVES
Many people choose stimulant laxatives to help relieve occasional constipation associated with such lifestyle changes as travel or a new diet. The ingredients in stimulant laxatives — such as senna (i.e., Senokot^® laxatives) and bisacodyl (i.e., Gentlax^® Tablets) — stimulate muscles and nerves in the intestines to help move the stool along. Senokot^® Natural Vegetable Laxative Ingredient Products contain only purified senna which has been proven to relieve constipation in over 50 clinical studies, and are used by millions to provide gentle, overnight relief.

STOOL SOFTENERS
Sometimes you may find that you are straining or even have pain when you try to move your bowels. This could be the result of constipation associated with a medication you are taking, or it may be a side effect from recent surgery. Whatever the cause, when constipation is accompanied by pain or straining, it is important to choose a laxative that contains a stool softener. As the name makes clear, stool softeners make the stools softer and easier to pass. How? By drawing more moisture into the stool while it is in the bowel. Senokot-S^® Tablets provide the same natural and gentle overnight laxative relief of Senokot^® Tablets with the added benefit of a stool softener if you have hard, dry stools.

To learn more about the Senokot^® Family of Laxatives, which includes products for every member of your family, click here.