Considerations

Most people can use laxatives, but not all types are suitable for everyone.

Check with a GP or pharmacist before using laxatives if you:

• have a bowel condition, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
• have a colostomy or ileostomy, where the small or large intestine is diverted through an opening in the abdomen
• have a history of liver or kidney disease
• are pregnant or breastfeeding
• have an obstruction somewhere in your digestive system
• have diabetes, as some laxatives can cause a rise in blood sugar
• have difficulty swallowing
• have a lactose intolerance, as some laxatives contain lactose
• have phenylketonuria, a rare genetic condition where the body is unable to break down a substance called phenylalanine, as phenylalanine is found in certain bulk-forming laxatives
• are taking opioid painkillers, such as codeine or morphine

These situations do not necessarity mean you cannot take laxatives, but certain types of laxative may be more suitable for you than others.

Children and laxatives

Always check with a GP before giving your baby or child a laxative.

Laxatives are not recommended for babies who have not been weaned.

If your unweaned baby is constipated, try giving them extra water in between feeds.

Gently massaging their tummy and moving their legs in a cycling motion may also help.

Babies who are eating solid foods may be able to use laxatives, but first make sure your baby drinks plenty of water or diluted fruit juice, and increase the amount of fibre in their diet.

If they're still constipated, a GP may prescribe or recommend a laxative.

Find out more about treating constipation in children

Page last reviewed: Fri Jun 2022 Next review due: Wed Feb 2020