The Dangers of Osmotic Laxatives

updated 01/17/2008

There are many different kinds of laxatives available on the market today. They use varying methods to achieve the same end—the elimination of compacted waste. They are generally not so effective or safe as oxygen cleanses.

Osmotic laxatives stimulate the intestines to absorb excessive amounts of water from the body. The process is slow, sometimes taking days to affect stool consistency. It basically makes diarrhea of the stool for easy passage. The danger is in the fluid that is pulled from the rest of the body; it can cause severe dehydration and depletion of electrolytes. And gas built up during the time you wait for the laxative to take effect (remember, it could be up to a few days), can cause bloating and cramping.

Be sure to investigate thoroughly any laxatives that you would be willing to try. It's a good idea to avoid these that dehydrate the body as part of the way they work. Some of the names that you will see on the market are as follows:

• Lactulose: Duphalac®, Kristalose®, and Actilax® (Lactulose)
• Sorbitol: Sorbilax®
• Polyethylene Glycol Compounds: MiraLAX®
• Magnesium Hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia): Phillip's® Milk of Magnesia, Dulcolax® Milk of Magnesia, and Freelax®

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