Short Summary. laxatives

Category of Laxatives 

Bulk-forming

Emollient

Osmotic

Saline

Stimulants 

---

Bulk-forming 

high fibers

absorbs water to increase the bulk flow 

distends bowel to initiate reflex bowel activity 

• psyllium
• Methylcellulose 

Emollient 

lowers surface tension - promotes more water in the stool 

• docusate salts 

Osmotic 

draw water into the intestinal lumen causes the fecal matter to swell which stimulates peristalsis 

Lactulose 

Saline

Draw water into the intestinal lumen causes the fecal matter to swell which stimulates peristalsis 

• magnesium hydroxide 
• magnesium citrate 
• sodium phosphate 

stimulants 

stimulate GI motility - water is not absorbed 

• senna
• bisacodyl