10 Best Constipation Medicines in the Philippines 2026 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Doctor
Constipation is common among Filipinos and is often caused by a low-fiber diet, dehydration, a sedentary lifestyle, or delaying bowel movements. While some experience occasional discomfort, others suffer from chronic constipation due to medications or health conditions. If left untreated, it can lead to bloating, abdominal pain, and digestive issues.
To help you choose the right constipation medicine, we consulted Board-Certified Family Medicine Specialist Dr. Eron Tan for insights on safe and effective treatments. Whether you need fast relief, a long-term solution, or a pregnancy-safe option, this guide has you covered, along with top-rated constipation medicines available on Lazada and Shopee.
Dr. Tan is a Family and Occupational Medicine doctor and college faculty member with expertise in clinical care, preventive medicine, and evidence-based practice. With a strong background in primary and secondary care, research, and community-oriented primary care, he simplifies complex health topics for readers. His experience in occupational health provides insights into workplace well-being and safety, ensuring health-related decisions are grounded in research and reliable medical knowledge.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
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When to Seek Medical Attention Instead of Self-Treating Constipation
While most cases of constipation can be managed with dietary changes and over-the-counter treatments, some symptoms require immediate medical attention.
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Blood in the stool or signs of rectal bleeding
- Unexplained weight loss of ≥10 pounds
- Severe or persistent abdominal pain
- Chronic constipation lasting more than three weeks
- New or worsening bloating, distension, or difficulty passing stool
- Rectal pain or a sensation of incomplete bowel movement (tenesmus)
- A family history of colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease
How to Choose a Constipation Medicine – Buying Guide
Constipation medicines come in different types, each working differently based on the cause and severity of constipation. Below, our expert-backed guide will help you select the best treatment for your condition.
Ensure Safety: Choose FDA-Approved Medicines From Trusted Retailers
FDA-approved medicines undergo strict safety testing, ensuring their efficacy and safety for consumers.
Taking unregulated medicines can be risky, especially when buying online. FDA approval guarantees that a product has passed strict safety and quality standards. To ensure you're purchasing an authentic and effective medicine, always check its registration and source.
Verify FDA approval on the Philippine FDA website or check for certification marks on packaging. Buy only from reputable drugstores and avoid suspiciously cheap or unbranded products. Always check the expiry date and packaging integrity before use.
Identify the Type of Constipation to Choose the Right Treatment
Constipation varies in severity and cause, so choosing the right medicine depends on your specific condition. Below are the best options based on different types of constipation.
For Occasional Constipation, Try Fast-Acting Laxatives
Stimulant laxatives provide quick relief by triggering bowel contractions, but they should only be used occasionally to prevent dependency.
If you need immediate relief, stimulant laxatives work within 6 to 12 hours by stimulating the intestines to contract. However, they should not be used frequently as they may cause dependency over time.
Bisacodyl (Dulcolax) – Stimulates bowel muscles to induce a bowel movement, typically effective overnight
- Dosage: 5-10 mg oral tablet at bedtime or 10 mg rectal suppository
Senna (Senokot) – A natural option, but may cause cramping
- Dosage: 8.6-17.2 mg once or twice daily
Remember to use these sparingly to avoid bowel dependency. Drink plenty of water to reduce cramping and dehydration.
For Chronic Constipation, Use Maintenance Remedies Like Fiber Supplements
Bulk-forming and osmotic laxatives are effective for chronic constipation, providing regularity without harsh side effects.
Bulk-forming laxatives absorb water in the intestines, increasing stool bulk and making it easier to pass. They work gradually and are considered the safest choice for regular use. One common example is psyllium, which is widely used for maintaining bowel regularity.
- Psyllium (Metamucil)
- Dosage: Start with 5 g/day, increase gradually up to 25-35 g/day
For those who need an alternative, osmotic laxatives work by drawing water into the intestines to soften stool and promote bowel movements. These are particularly effective for chronic constipation but require proper hydration.
- Polyethylene Glycol (PEG, MiraLAX)
- Dosage: 17 g once daily mixed with water
Increase fiber gradually to prevent bloating. Drink plenty of fluids when using fiber or osmotic laxatives to avoid dehydration.
Address Medication-Induced Constipation With Osmotic or Stool Softeners
Osmotic laxatives and stool softeners help counteract constipation caused by medications like opioids and iron supplements.
Some medications, such as painkillers and iron supplements, can cause constipation. The best treatment involves using osmotic laxatives or stool softeners to make stool easier to pass.
Lactulose – A gentle osmotic laxative, often used for chronic constipation or liver conditions
- Dosage: 15-30 mL daily
Docusate sodium – A stool softener ideal for mild constipation or post-surgery recovery
- Dosage: 100-300 mg daily in divided doses
For Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women, Opt for Safe and Gentle Remedies
Bulk-forming and osmotic laxatives are the safest options during pregnancy, while stimulant laxatives should only be used occasionally.
Pregnancy-related constipation is common due to hormonal changes. Safe treatment options include natural fiber intake and doctor-approved laxatives that do not cause contractions or dependency.
Psyllium or lactulose – First-line safe choices
- Dosage: Psyllium: 5-10 g/day; Lactulose: 15-30 mL daily
Magnesium hydroxide or PEG – Can be used occasionally
- Dosage: Magnesium hydroxide: 30-60 mL daily; PEG: 17 g once daily
Remember to avoid stimulant laxatives unless approved by your doctor.
For Elderly Individuals, Consider Gentle, Non-Habit-Forming Solutions
Seniors should avoid stimulant laxatives due to risks of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Bulk-forming and osmotic laxatives are safer.
As digestion slows with age, constipation becomes more common. Seniors should prioritize gentle laxatives that prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Osmotic laxatives like PEG and lactulose provide consistent relief without the harsh effects of stimulant laxatives.
Liquid or powder formulations are more convenient options for those who have difficulty swallowing. However, adequate hydration is essential to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances while using these treatments.
Explore Natural and Dietary Options Like Prunes or Fiber-Rich Foods
A fiber-rich diet, proper hydration, and probiotics can naturally improve bowel movements and reduce reliance on laxatives.
Improving digestion naturally can prevent the need for medication. A high-fiber diet, hydration, and gut-friendly foods support regular bowel movements.
Prunes, kiwifruit, pears, and bran are high-fiber foods that promote natural digestion.
Probiotics (yogurt, kefir) help maintain gut health.
Daily water intake of 1.5-2 L prevents hard stools.
Combining dietary changes with light exercise, such as walking or yoga, can further improve bowel regularity.
10 Best Constipation Medicines to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Details | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Form | Medicine Type | Key Ingredient | Dosage | ||||
1 | Miralax Powder Relieves Constipation |  | Granules for Solution | Osmotic Laxative | Polyethylene Glycol | 17000 mg | |
2 | SureLax 17g Powder Laxative |  | Granules for Solution | Osmotic Laxative | Polyethylene Glycol | 17000 mg | |
3 | Dulcolax Constipation Relief Tablet 5 mg |  | Tablet (Enteric-Coated) | Stimulant Laxative | Bisacodyl | 5 mg | |
4 | Dylax Enteric-Coated Tablet Laxative |  | Tablet | Stimulant Laxative | Bisacodyl | 5 mg | |
5 | Senokot Laxative |  | Tablet | Stimulant Laxative | Calcium Sennosides | 8.77 mg | |
6 | Nulax Natural Laxative Tablets |  | Tablet | Stimulant Laxative, Fiber Supplement | Senna Leaves, Phyto Fiber | 75 mg | |
7 | Watsonal Castoria Laxative Syrup |  | Syrup | Stimulant Laxative | Senna Leaves | 33.3 mg per mL | |
8 | Natureplex Enema Saline Constipation Relief |  | Liquid Formulation | Osmotic Laxative | Sodium | 19 g Monobasic Sodium Phosphate, 7 g Dibasic Sodium Phosphate (per Delivered Dose) | |
9 | RiteMED Bisacodyl Tablet for Constipation |  | Tablet | Stimulant Laxative | Bisacodyl | 5 mg | |
10 | I-Ching Sung Laxative Tablets |  | Tablet | Stimulant Laxative | Diacetyl Diphenolisatin | 5 mg | |
| Form | Granules for Solution |
|---|---|
| Medicine Type | Osmotic Laxative |
| Key Ingredient | Polyethylene Glycol |
| Dosage | 17000 mg |
| Form | Granules for Solution |
|---|---|
| Medicine Type | Osmotic Laxative |
| Key Ingredient | Polyethylene Glycol |
| Dosage | 17000 mg |
| Form | Tablet (Enteric-Coated) |
|---|---|
| Medicine Type | Stimulant Laxative |
| Key Ingredient | Bisacodyl |
| Dosage | 5 mg |
| Form | Tablet |
|---|---|
| Medicine Type | Stimulant Laxative |
| Key Ingredient | Bisacodyl |
| Dosage | 5 mg |
| Form | Tablet |
|---|---|
| Medicine Type | Stimulant Laxative |
| Key Ingredient | Calcium Sennosides |
| Dosage | 8.77 mg |
| Form | Tablet |
|---|---|
| Medicine Type | Stimulant Laxative, Fiber Supplement |
| Key Ingredient | Senna Leaves, Phyto Fiber |
| Dosage | 75 mg |
| Form | Syrup |
|---|---|
| Medicine Type | Stimulant Laxative |
| Key Ingredient | Senna Leaves |
| Dosage | 33.3 mg per mL |
| Form | Liquid Formulation |
|---|---|
| Medicine Type | Osmotic Laxative |
| Key Ingredient | Sodium |
| Dosage | 19 g Monobasic Sodium Phosphate, 7 g Dibasic Sodium Phosphate (per Delivered Dose) |
| Form | Tablet |
|---|---|
| Medicine Type | Stimulant Laxative |
| Key Ingredient | Bisacodyl |
| Dosage | 5 mg |
| Form | Tablet |
|---|---|
| Medicine Type | Stimulant Laxative |
| Key Ingredient | Diacetyl Diphenolisatin |
| Dosage | 5 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Below, Dr. Eron Tan answers some of the most asked questions we found on the web.
Are Laxatives Addictive?
Bulk-forming and osmotic laxatives are safe for long-term use, but stimulant laxatives should only be used occasionally to avoid dependency.
What Are the Risks of Overusing Laxatives?
Overuse can cause bowel dependency, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and reduced natural bowel function.
What Is the Best Natural Remedy for Constipation?
Fiber-rich foods (prunes, pears), hydration (1.5-2 L/day), and probiotics are effective natural remedies.
What Should I Do if My Constipation Medicine Doesn’t Work?
If your constipation medicine isn’t providing relief, consider the following steps:
- Ensure proper hydration and fiber intake to support bowel movements.
- Combine fiber supplements with osmotic laxatives for a more effective approach.
- Consult a doctor if symptoms persist despite treatment to rule out underlying conditions.
Support Your Gut Health!
Fuel your well-being from the inside out! A balanced gut can boost your health. Explore more with these helpful links
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
