This health issue of constipation occurs because gastrointestinal system's bowel tract slows down and becomes sluggish. It can occur because of change in medication, low intake of fiber in the diet and because of increased stress in a person's life. It also can occur because of illnesses. Increasing fluids, exercise and the amount of fiber in the diet can help in reestablishing normal bowel movements. Sometimes, over-the-counter medications can help relieve this problem also, MayoClinic.com reports.
Docusate
This medication comes in a gel capsule form as well as a liquid. People can take it up to twice daily to promote bowel irritability and encouraging bowel movements to occur. It works by drawing fats and water into the stools, which causes it to soften. This allows the stools to move freely out of the bowel and through the rectum, Drugs.com notes.
Methylcellulose
This over-the-counter laxative works by increasing the amount of fiber content in the stool. It comes in tablet form and as a powder. Constipation sufferers usually take it once daily, but they may take it twice a day or at the advice of a doctor, Drugs.com indicates. It draws water into the stool and causes swelling in the intestines. This allows the amount of stool to increase in the intestines, causing the pressure to move the stool out of the intestine and into the rectum.
Bisacodyl
Bisacodyl, an over-the-counter laxative, promotes a bowel stimulation by directly irritating the bowels, according to Drugs.com. People can take it up to two times daily. It causes the bowels to contract and push stools out of the rectum.
Sennosides
People with constipation can take sennosides in the form of a chewable medication. It works by irritating the inside of the bowels, causing them to contract, which moves the stools into the rectum for defecation, according to Drugs.com.
Magnesium Hydroxide
Magnesium hydroxide works by drawing water into the bowels, MayoClinic.com indicates. This medication comes in liquid and tablet forms. It should be taken as needed or as prescribed by the doctor, and it should be taken with fluids.
