Unless there's a reason why a type of laxative may be more suitable for you than another: It's difficult to know whether a particular laxative will work better than another. This type of laxative works by letting water into poo to soften it and make it easier to pass.
These stimulate the muscles that line your gut, helping them to move poo along to your back passage. macrogol (also called by the brand names Movicol, Laxido, CosmoCol, Molaxole and Molative).lactulose (also called by the brand names Duphalac and Lactugal).
Osmotic laxatives draw water from the rest of the body into your bowel to soften poo and make it easier to pass. Bulk-forming laxativesīulk-forming laxatives work by increasing the 'bulk' or weight of poo, which in turn stimulates your bowel. They're also available on prescription from a doctor. Laxatives are available to buy from pharmacies and supermarkets. They're often used if lifestyle changes, such as increasing the amount of fibre in your diet, drinking plenty of fluid and taking regular exercise, have not helped. Laxatives are a type of medicine that can treat constipation.
