Place |
Name |
Characteristic in the rating |
1 | Microlax | The most convenient application |
2 | Guttalax | The best laxative for children over 3 years old |
3 | Forlax | Suspension with orange flavor. No adverse reactions |
1 | Mukofalk | Allowed during pregnancy |
2 | Phytolax | Convenient release form |
3 | RectActive | The fastest action. small size |
1 | Duphalac | High efficiency |
2 | Normase | Easy to use, low consumption |
3 | Exportal | Universal drug based on lactitol |
1 | Bisacodyl | The best ratio of price and quality |
2 | Senade | The slowest flow |
3 | Regulax | The best remedy for atonic constipation in the elderly |
Due to long-term medication, a sedentary lifestyle, or regular consumption of junk food, digestive problems can occur in the human body. Their main symptom is constipation. Especially for the quick disposal of this disease, laxatives were invented. It is immediately worth noting that they do not fight the cause of constipation, but only eliminate them. Modern pharmacies offer a wide range of laxatives. Such medicines are also relevant for constipation in children, in the elderly and before various operations. When buying such drugs, the following factors should be considered:
- Type of. Osmotic relieve constipation through the accumulation of fluid in the intestines, thereby softening the mass.Irritant drugs stimulate peristalsis, affecting the intestinal mucosa. The last type - prebiotics have the mildest and most gentle effect, optimize the microflora of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Compound. Give preference to products with harmless components (sodium salts, glycerin, etc.). Plant-based preparations have the safest effect. The presence of contraindications and side effects depends on the composition.
- Exposure time. In different situations, different drugs will be suitable. For example, if you are at home and can wait for the medicine to work, then choose osmotic drugs. In other cases, emergency medications (eg, irritants), etc., will do.
We have compiled a ranking of the best laxatives in different categories: for children, the elderly, based on herbal ingredients and prebiotics. The following factors were taken into account in the selection:
- doctors' recommendations;
- composition components;
- customer reviews;
- safety;
- efficiency.
The best laxative for children
Children of all ages often experience constipation. To safely cleanse the intestines, you have to use special pharmacy products. Children's drugs should be treated with extreme caution. Some of them are recommended for the youngest age, others are allowed only after 3 years. We found out which drugs are most trusted by parents and which are approved by specialists.
3 Forlax
Country: France
Average price: 301 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.7
The drug "Forlax" is recommended for the symptomatic treatment of constipation in children from 6 months.up to 8 years old. According to the manufacturer's research, the laxative does not provoke any negative side reactions, is not addictive and can be prescribed for a fairly long-term therapy (but not more than 3 months). The desired effect occurs within 24-48 hours from the moment of administration. A single dose depends on the age and condition of the child, and starts with 1/2-1 sachet per day.
"Forlax" slows down the absorption of other drugs, so between the use of this suspension and other medicinal substances prescribed by the doctor, you should definitely take a break (at least 2 hours). In their reviews, moms note that the product really helps to gently cleanse the intestines, but many criticize it for its pronounced citrus flavor and aroma, which not all kids liked. Another drawback, most users called severe flatulence, which can occur in the first days of treatment.
2 Guttalax
Country: Italy
Average price: 420 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.8
The drug "Guttalax" is available in the form of drops, the active substance of which is sodium picosulfate monohydrate. Refers to the type of irritating drugs. It causes the receptors in the intestinal wall to contract, thereby pushing the feces out. The laxative effect is noticed after a few hours, because. the components of the drug act very gently. Suitable for children over 3 years old.
Each age has its own dosage. For example, at 4 years old, it is necessary to give from 5 to 10 drops, previously dissolved in water. The advantages include gentle impact, good composition, excellent cleaning effect, slow consumption, high quality.Disadvantages: many contraindications, does not work immediately.
1 Microlax
Country: Sweden
Average price: 350 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.9
The most popular laxative drug for children is Microlax. Its active ingredients - sodium salts and glycerol - gently affect the intestines. The tool promotes the accumulation of fluid and liquefaction of feces, which as a result facilitates defecation. The main feature of Microlax is its fast action. The drug is quite simple to use - it is placed in a special package with a narrow long tip.
It belongs to the osmotic type of drugs, therefore it has an instant effect within 5-15 minutes. Indicated for use from birth. Available in different dosages for children and adults. Advantages: fast action, effective bowel cleansing, does not bring discomfort to babies, harmless composition, approved for use from birth, convenient release form. No deficiencies found.
The best herbal laxative
The safest laxative is considered to be a remedy made from herbal ingredients. 100% natural composition provides the most beneficial and gentle effect on the intestines. Such drugs do not have an instant effect, but have a cumulative effect. Suitable for the prevention of constipation and improve the functioning of the digestive tract. Below are the best herbal laxatives.
3 RectActive
Country: Russia
Average price: 281 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.6
Rektaktiv herbal laxative based on horse chestnut seed extract is produced in the form of rectal suppositories and is distinguished by the fastest action among all rating participants. When injected into the anus, the drug irritates the rectal mucosa, thereby activating peristalsis and causing bowel cleansing. Defecation occurs within 5-7 minutes. The drug has a very high efficiency - as a rule, doctors prescribe no more than 1 suppository per day. The maximum daily dose for adult patients is 300 mg.
Treatment with Rektaktiv can be carried out in a course of up to one month. Contraindications for use are the state of pregnancy and lactation, intestinal obstruction, acute attack of hemorrhoids, as well as hypersensitivity to the components of the composition. On sale you can find two dosage options - 50 and 100 mg each. Candles are packaged in cellular packaging traditional for this type of medicine, they are small in size and, according to customer reviews, do not melt in the hands, which significantly increases the hygiene of the procedure. In one box - from 5 to 10 pcs.
2 Phytolax
Country: Russia
Average price: 300 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.7
Another effective laxative based on natural ingredients are Phytolax tablets. They affect intestinal motility and cause bowel movements 4-12 hours after ingestion. In addition to laxative, they have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects. Available in the form of chewable tablets with a pleasant sweetish taste. It is necessary to consume 1-2 pieces during meals. For maximum effect, the manufacturer recommends continuing to take the drug for up to 4 days.
The active ingredients are apricot, plantain, senna leaves, dill fruits, fiber, etc. They have practically no contraindications and side effects. Tablets do not need to be washed down, so they can be used even on the road. Pros: high efficiency, excellent composition, convenient application, pleasant taste, useful herbal ingredients, good reviews. The disadvantages include the presence of sugar in the composition.
1 Mukofalk
Country: Germany
Average price: 532 rub
Rating (2022): 4.8
"Mukofalk" from the German company Dr. Falk Pharma is a natural laxative that is able to retain fluid in the intestines, which contributes to the swelling of the stool and stimulates the process of physiological cleansing. It is available as a powder with a pleasant citrus aroma, which should be dissolved in a glass of warm water and consumed in small sips. Depending on the severity of the condition, during the day you can take from 2 to 6 sachets weighing 20 g each. The minimum interval between doses should be 30 minutes. up to 1 hour.
The active ingredient of the product is processed psyllium oval seeds. Due to its safe composition, Mucofalk is approved for the treatment of constipation in pregnant and lactating women. To achieve the best effect, during therapy it is necessary to drink at least 1.5 liters of pure water per day. According to reviews, the medicine acts quite delicately, does not cause feelings of dependence and discomfort. Some users noted the development of allergic reactions, but this nuance is most likely associated with individual intolerance to the components of the biological product, which indicates its subjective nature.
Best prebiotic laxative
Prebiotic preparations are considered the safest after plant-based products. Special microorganisms act directly on the intestines. This type of medication has practically no contraindications, therefore it is approved for use in pregnant and lactating women. The only difference between prebiotics is that they do not begin to act immediately. The rating includes the best drugs according to experts and buyers.
3 Exportal
Country: Russia
Average price: 346 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.6
The main active ingredient of the popular Russian drug Exportal is lactitol, a hydrocarbon alcohol synthesized from milk sugar. Laxatives based on it are considered one of the best and are often prescribed by gastroenterologists to normalize stools, as they have long proven their effectiveness. They are characterized by a mild effect, a high level of safety and the absence of significant negative reactions, therefore they can be used to treat all categories of patients - from children to the elderly.
The drug is available in the form of a water-soluble powder. It has a neutral taste and smell. It does not affect blood sugar levels, so it is approved for use by diabetics of the 1st and 2nd type. The remedy should be taken once during a meal, after mixing it with water or other liquids (juice, tea or coffee is also suitable). Judging by the reviews, Exportal copes well with the problem of constipation. In their comments, users highlight the convenient regimen, the absence of discomfort in the intestines and the excellent result, which persists for a long time after the end of the course.
2 Normase
Country: Italy
Average price: 270 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.7
Means "Normaze" of Italian production contains the main active ingredient - lactulose. It increases the pressure in the intestines and causes fluid to accumulate in its lumen, thereby leading to softening of the stool. Recommended for use in chronic and acute constipation. Produced in the form of syrup in bottles of 200 ml. One package is enough for a long time. For convenience, a measuring cup is included.
The active substance increases the number of lactobacilli in the intestine and increases acidity. Depending on the individual characteristics of the patient, the action occurs quickly or after 24-48 hours. Approved for use by young children. Main advantages: high efficiency, good reviews, gentle effect, destroys harmful intestinal microflora, slow consumption. Disadvantages: contraindicated in people with diabetes.
1 Duphalac
Country: Netherlands
Average price: 932 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.8
"Duphalac" is a laxative prebiotic. The active ingredient here is lactulose. This substance becomes an irritant to the receptors in the colon, attracts fluid to the intestines and promotes bowel movements. It is presented in the form of a syrup with a pleasant taste. One pack contains 10 sachets of 15 ml liquid. The average dose per dose for an adult is 40 ml.
The drug stimulates intestinal peristalsis and causes changes in the consistency of the stool. Due to the composition, the product can be used during pregnancy, as well as in childhood. It is recommended for many diseases, including hemorrhoids, hepatic coma, etc.The advantages include high quality, fast action, efficiency, the absence of a large number of contraindications. Cons: fast consumption, overdose is accompanied by unpleasant symptoms.
The best laxative for the elderly
In old age, people often experience constipation. They are caused by age-related changes, various diseases (for example, atherosclerosis, etc.), the use of certain drugs, and a sedentary lifestyle. Constipation in such cases, first of all, you should try to cure it with natural remedies - fruits, oils, kefir. If they do not help, then the doctor prescribes a laxative. We have selected the best remedies for constipation in the elderly.
3 Regulax
Country: Germany
Average price: 275 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.7
Drops for oral administration "Regulax" have proven themselves in the normalization of the digestive tract, gently and effectively eliminating the main symptoms of difficult defecation. The drug successfully treats atonic constipation, which is often diagnosed in the elderly, and also helps to establish stool in inflammatory processes in the mucous membrane and varicose veins of the rectum. Due to its prolonged action, the drug is taken once - at bedtime. The initial dose (if the doctor has not prescribed another) is 10-13 drops. The maximum course of treatment is 7 days. The effect occurs approximately 10 hours after administration.
Despite its proven effectiveness, Regulax should be used with caution by hypotensive patients (a decrease in blood pressure is indicated in the list of adverse reactions), patients with cystitis and those who use drugs from the cardiac glycoside group.It should also be noted that the laxative effect of drops can be significantly reduced while taking various types of antibiotics, so treatment with their help requires mandatory consultation with a specialist.
2 Senade
Country: India
Average price: 570 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.8
The herbal preparation "Senade" is indicated for constipation of varying degrees and is suitable for the elderly. It is based on a common laxative extract of senna leaves. It is an irritant to the intestinal walls and stimulates peristalsis. It begins to act on average 8 hours after ingestion.
Produced in the form of tablets. One package contains 500 pieces. Judging by the reviews, it has a mild effect. The daily dose for adults is 1 tablet per day. The drug is consumed very slowly. The maximum period of admission is 2 weeks, otherwise addiction may occur. Advantages: good laxative effect, 3 years shelf life, good composition, based on herbal ingredients, very slow consumption. Disadvantages: high price.
1 Bisacodyl
Country: Latvia
Average price: 40 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.9
An effective laxative "Bisacodyl" is presented in the form of rectal suppositories. It acts by influencing peristalsis and increasing mucus in the intestines. Apply one candle before bed. Suitable for the elderly. The laxative effect appears on average 6 hours after use. It acts by contact and is almost not absorbed by internal organs. The main advantage of the drug is its cost.
"Bisacodyl" is contraindicated in polyps, cystitis, hemorrhoids, etc.Advantages: fast action for drugs of this type, best value, good customer reviews, suitable for the elderly and children, improves peristalsis, convenient release form. Cons: many contraindications.