Stress, an unhealthy diet, a sedentary lifestyle, and certain health conditions can all affect bowel movements, leading to constipation. This can interfere with daily life and cause bloating, sluggishness, and a general sense of discomfort. That’s why finding the right laxative is essential for relief and restoring regularity.
With the guidance of an expert, Doctor Eron Tan, we’ve put together a comprehensive buying guide about laxatives so you can address different types of constipation, whether for short-term or long-term. Plus, we’ll walk you through the 10 best laxatives in the Philippines available on Lazada and Shopee to narrow down your choices!
Quick List - Top Laxatives
Pascual Laboratories
Daily Fiber Boost with Refreshing Mango Flavor
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.
Patricia is a versatile writer with an interest in food, lifestyle, travel, and sports. She also writes articles and does social media work as a volunteer of a media organization that covers collegiate sports leagues in the Philippines. During her free time, she enjoys binge-watching her favorite shows, attending sporting events, and sometimes, traveling.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Not all constipation fixes work the same. Understanding the difference prevents misuse and speeds up relief.
Stool softeners and laxatives both help relieve constipation, but they work differently. Stool softeners, such as docusate sodium, add moisture to the stool, making it easier to pass, and are usually gentle on the body. Laxatives, on the other hand, actively stimulate bowel movements. There are different types of laxatives—bulk-forming, osmotic, and stimulant—and each works through a distinct mechanism.
Checking if a laxative is FDA-approved helps protect you from harmful ingredients or unproven claims that could worsen your condition.
The first and most important step when choosing a laxative is to check if the product is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). FDA approval means the product has been evaluated for its safety, effectiveness, and manufacturing quality. This ensures that the laxative contains the right ingredients in the correct dosage and has been tested for potential side effects. This process helps prevent unregulated or counterfeit options from reaching consumers.
Know which type of laxative is best for your symptoms, whether you’re experiencing mild, persistent, or unrelieved constipation.
Bulk-forming laxatives like psyllium and methylcellulose absorb water to increase stool bulk. They are recommended for mild constipation and long-term use.
Avoid using bulk-forming laxatives if you suspect slow-transit constipation, which is typically defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week.
Osmotic laxatives help soften stool and make it easier to pass over time. They work gently and consistently, making them ideal for long-term or chronic cases.
For persistent or chronic constipation, osmotic laxatives like polyethylene glycol and lactulose can be effective options. These work by drawing water into the intestines, which softens the stool and increases its volume. As a result, bowel movements become easier and more comfortable, especially when milder remedies like fiber supplements or increased water intake aren’t providing enough relief.
If symptoms are still unrelieved, even with bulk-forming and/or osmotic laxatives, add stimulant laxatives every other day to trigger intestinal muscle contractions.
Stimulant laxatives—such as senna (Senokot), bisacodyl (Dulcolax), and sodium picosulfate—work by directly stimulating the nerves in the colon, prompting the muscles to contract and push stool through the digestive tract. These are typically used when other over-the-counter laxatives, like bulk-forming or osmotic types, haven’t been effective. While they can provide quick relief, stimulant laxatives are best used occasionally or under medical supervision, as frequent use may lead to dependence or worsen constipation over time.
Laxatives come in several forms, with each one offering a distinct effect and varying in onset, so read more about them to decide which one aligns with your preferences.
Oral tablets and capsules take a few hours to work, making them a good option if you want to have more control over when relief happens, such as before leaving the house.
Tablets and capsules are oral laxatives that are often considered the most convenient form since they only need to be swallowed with water. They are usually taken at night, allowing them to work overnight and take effect by morning.
The onset of action typically ranges from 6 to 12 hours, depending on the type. This makes them suitable for managing mild constipation and for those who want to time their bowel movements in advance.
Liquid laxatives are absorbed more quickly by the body, helping to provide faster relief from constipation. This makes them helpful for sudden, uncomfortable constipation.
Liquid laxatives are often mixed with water or juice to make them more palatable. Common examples include lactulose, which usually takes 24 to 48 hours to work, and castor oil, which acts much faster, typically within 2 to 6 hours.
This type is also often more potent and works more quickly than tablets and capsules. They help relieve constipation by drawing water into the intestines, softening the stool, and stimulating bowel movement.
Powder laxatives are a good option for those who have trouble swallowing pills and want easier intake or need a gentler, customizable solution.
Laxative powders are dissolved in water and consumed as a drink, making them a practical choice for those who prefer not to take pills or capsules. They work by attracting water into the intestines and forming a gel-like consistency, which helps ease the passage of stool by softening and increasing its volume.
Their effectiveness varies by ingredient—polyethylene glycol (PEG) provides gentle relief within 24 to 48 hours, while sodium sulfate offers a faster-acting solution, often working in just a few hours. These are especially useful for people needing a flexible option for regular use or occasional bowel prep.
Suppositories are best for those who need fast, targeted relief from constipation, especially when oral options aren’t effective or suitable.
Suppositories and enemas provide the fastest relief, often within 5 to 15 minutes. Both administered through the rectum, suppositories stimulate the lower colon or soften stool, while enemas, like saline, soap suds, or oil-based, hydrate the bowel or trigger contractions to ease passage.
These are good choices for those unable to take oral medicines. However, taking suppositories and enemas may be potentially uncomfortable for conservative individuals. Despite the discomfort some may experience, their rapid onset makes them the practical choice for immediate relief.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FDA Registered | Medicine Type | Form | Key Ingredient | |||||
1 | Biofitea Slimming Herbal Tea | ![]() | Gentle Herbal Tea for Detox and Digestive Health | Stimulant Laxative | Liquid Formulation | Senna Leaves、Senna Pods | ||
2 | Kancura Herbal Slimming Tea Laxative and Detox | ![]() | Natural Cleansing for Regular Bowel Movement | Stimulant Laxative | Liquid Formulation | Senna Leaves、Senna Pods | ||
3 | Westmont SureLax | ![]() | Safe, Non-Habit-Forming Laxative Solution | Osmotic Laxative | Granules for Solution | Polyethylene Glycol | ||
4 | Pascual Laboratories C-Lium Fibre Mango Flavor|Mango Flavor | ![]() | Daily Fiber Boost with Refreshing Mango Flavor | Bulk-forming Laxative | Liquid Formulation | Psyllium Fiber | ||
5 | Sanofi Dulcolax | ![]() | Works Overnight to Relieve Constipation in the Morning | Stimulant Laxative | Tablet | Bisacodyl | ||
6 | RiteMED Bisacodyl | ![]() | Easy-to-Take Relief for Occasional Constipation | Stimulant Laxative | Tablet | Bisacodyl | ||
7 | Meyers Laxatrol | ![]() | Fast-Acting Castor Oil Laxative | Stimulant Laxative | Liquid Formulation | None | ||
8 | Bayer MiraLAX | ![]() | Doctor-Recommended Osmotic Laxative Solution | Osmotic Laxative | Granules for Solution | Polyethylene Glycol | ||
9 | Easy Out Lite Colon Cleansing Detox Laxative | ![]() | Refreshing Flavor for Easy Drinking | Bulk-forming Laxative | Liquid Formulation | Phyto Fiber | ||
10 | Lilac Lactulose | ![]() | Supports Liver Health, Manages Encephalopathy | Osmotic Laxative | Liquid Formulation | None |
FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Stimulant Laxative |
Form | Liquid Formulation |
Key Ingredient | Senna Leaves、Senna Pods |
Reviews mention:
Users say this tea helps ease bloating and promotes smoother digestion, often making them feel lighter the next day. While some experience mild cramps or urgency, they consider it a normal part of using herbal laxatives. A few recommend experimenting with brew strength or frequency to find what works best for your body.
FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Stimulant Laxative |
Form | Liquid Formulation |
Key Ingredient | Senna Leaves、Senna Pods |
Many customers find it effective for occasional constipation and easy to mix into water or juice. Some report mild bloating or discomfort, especially when taking higher doses, but say the effects are generally manageable. Most view it as a good short-term solution rather than something for long-term use.
FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Osmotic Laxative |
Form | Granules for Solution |
Key Ingredient | Polyethylene Glycol |
This product is often praised for improving digestion and supporting regular bowel movements, especially when users increase their water intake. The mango flavor is popular, and many find it easy to incorporate into daily routines. Some note that the powder’s texture may take getting used to, and they remind others to drink plenty of water after use.
FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Bulk-forming Laxative |
Form | Liquid Formulation |
Key Ingredient | Psyllium Fiber |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Many reviewers find this product effective for relieving constipation, particularly when quick results are needed overnight or before medical procedures. Mild abdominal discomfort or cramping is sometimes reported, which is expected with stimulant laxatives. Most advise using it only as directed and not for long-term daily use.
FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Stimulant Laxative |
Form | Tablet |
Key Ingredient | Bisacodyl |
Often taken before bedtime, this tablet is praised for providing relief by the next morning. While some users report mild cramping or stomach discomfort—common with stimulant laxatives—many find it effective when used occasionally. It’s best reserved for short-term use, rather than as a daily remedy.
FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Stimulant Laxative |
Form | Tablet |
Key Ingredient | Bisacodyl |
Users commonly highlight the product’s quick relief of constipation, especially before medical procedures. Following usage instructions is emphasized to avoid discomfort or overuse. Many also appreciate its pleasant taste compared to other castor oil products.
FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Stimulant Laxative |
Form | Liquid Formulation |
Key Ingredient | None |
The gentle action and effectiveness of this product for relieving constipation are frequently mentioned, with many users noting it is easier on the stomach than other laxatives. Its convenience and lack of strong taste or texture are also appreciated. Some mention it may take a day or more to see results, and a few advise consulting a doctor before long-term use.
FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Osmotic Laxative |
Form | Granules for Solution |
Key Ingredient | Polyethylene Glycol |
While there are not a large number of reviews, available feedback is generally positive, focusing on the product’s mild action, natural ingredients, and pleasant taste. Users recommend it for those seeking a gentle, natural digestive aid.
FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Bulk-forming Laxative |
Form | Liquid Formulation |
Key Ingredient | Phyto Fiber |
This product is often highlighted for providing gentle, reliable relief from constipation, especially for those needing long-term management. Some users mention mild stomach discomfort or bloating during initial use, but these effects usually lessen over time. Many also appreciate its suitability for sensitive patients and its dual benefits for liver-related conditions, though medical supervision is recommended.
FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Osmotic Laxative |
Form | Liquid Formulation |
Key Ingredient | None |
Here are answers to frequently asked questions about laxatives, shared by Dr. Eron Tan to help you use them safely and effectively.
Laxatives are appropriate when dietary and lifestyle changes, such as increasing fiber, fluids, and physical activity, are not sufficient. They are also used if symptoms persist or if faster relief is needed, and recommended for short-term use initially. However, some types (such as bulk-forming or polyethylene glycol) can be used safely in the long term, especially for chronic constipation.
Yes. Bulk-forming laxatives (like psyllium) and osmotic agents (like lactulose, PEG) are generally considered safe for pregnant women. Avoid stimulant laxatives unless necessary and under a physician’s supervision.
Start with bulk-forming agents and adequate hydration, then use osmotic laxatives if needed. Avoid magnesium-based laxatives and sodium phosphate enemas due to the risk of electrolyte imbalance.
No. Laxatives do not cause significant calorie loss. Using them for weight loss is unsafe and can cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and other complications.
Food high in fiber and sorbitol, like prunes, dates, pears, apples, peaches, cherries, kiwi, broccoli, leafy greens, lentils, beans, brown rice, and oatmeal, relieves constipation naturally due to their mild laxative effect.
A gradual increase in fiber intake to 20g to 35g and fluid intake to at least 1.5 liters per day, regular physical activity, squat-like defecation posture, and toilet timing after meals can also contribute to improved overall and long-term bowel movement.
Yes, dehydration is a common side effect of laxatives, especially sodium phosphate enemas, which have the risk of dehydration, kidney failure, and electrolyte disturbances in older adults. Thus, it is important not to take more than the prescribed amount and drink lots of fluids when you’re taking laxatives.
Struggling with constipation? Improve your digestion with tea, probiotics, and fiber-packed oatmeal. Incorporating these into your diet can provide better gut health and bowel movement in the long run!
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. 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.
No. 1: Biofitea|Slimming Herbal Tea
No. 2: Kancura|Herbal Slimming Tea Laxative and Detox
No. 3: Westmont|SureLax
No. 4: Pascual Laboratories|C-Lium Fibre Mango Flavor|Mango Flavor
No. 5: Sanofi|Dulcolax
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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