Understanding the Difference between Laxatives and Purgatives
Are you suffering from constipation or irregular bowel movements? You might be considering taking a laxative or purgative to address the issue.
While both laxatives and purgatives are used to ease constipation, they have different effects on the body. Here’s a quick guide to help you understand the differences between these two types of bowel-relieving drugs.
What Are Laxatives?
Laxatives work by softening the stool or promoting bowel movements through the help of fiber or other chemical compounds. They’re typically taken orally, and act by increasing the water content and bulk of the stool, which in turn helps to ease constipation.
Laxatives come in different forms like liquids, tablets, and capsules, and they can be taken both over-the-counter and through prescriptions. Some common types include osmotic, stimulant, stool softeners, and lubricants.
What Are Purgatives?
Purgatives, on the other hand, are stronger types of drugs that work by quickly and forcefully emptying the bowels. They’re commonly used before diagnostic or surgical procedures or in cases of severe constipation.
Unlike laxatives, purgatives act quickly and have powerful effects on the body. They’re also associated with more potential for side effects, such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, diarrhea, and cramping.
Examples of purgatives include sodium phosphate enemas, bisacodyl, and castor oil.
The Main Differences between Laxatives and Purgatives
In summary, the main differences between laxatives and purgatives are:
– Laxatives are used to alleviate mild to moderate constipation while purgatives are used for severe constipation or prior to medical procedures.
– Laxatives work by softening the stool or increasing its bulk, while purgatives stimulate the bowels to empty quickly and forcefully.
– Laxatives have a slower and gentler onset of action, while purgatives have quick and powerful effects with higher risks of side effects.
When to Use Laxatives or Purgatives?
If you’re experiencing mild constipation, it’s best to try natural remedies first like increasing your fiber intake, drinking more water, and exercising more. If these don’t work, a laxative may help. However, if you’re dealing with severe constipation or need to undergo diagnostic or surgical procedures, your doctor may prescribe a purgative instead.
In conclusion, while laxatives and purgatives have similar purposes, they’re different in terms of onset, strength of action, and potential side effects. It’s crucial to use them as directed and only when necessary to avoid any negative consequences. Always consult with your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions that may be affected by the drug.
Table difference between laxative and purgative
| Parameter | Laxative | Purgative |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | To ease and promote bowel movements | To produce complete bowel evacuation |
| Intensity | Mild | Strong |
| Onset of action | Slow (usually within 12-72 hours) | Fast (usually within 2-6 hours) |
| Types | Emollient, bulk-forming, stimulant, osmotic | Saline, irritant |
| Administration | Oral, rectal, topical | Oral, rectal, intravenous |
| Safety | Relatively safe for short-term use; may cause dependence with long-term use | Should be used with caution; may cause electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, and other adverse effects |