Laxatives (Oral)

Side Effects of This Medicine

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

For bulk-forming-containing

Difficulty in breathing; intestinal blockage; skin rash or itching; swallowing difficulty (feeling of lump in throat)

For hyperosmotic-containing

Confusion; dizziness or light-headedness; irregular heartbeat; muscle cramps; unusual tiredness or weakness

For stimulant-containing

Confusion; irregular heartbeat; muscle cramps; pink to red, red to violet, or red to brown coloration of alkaline urine (for cascara, danthron, and/or senna only); skin rash; unusual tiredness or weakness; yellow to brown coloration of acid urine (for cascara, and/or senna only)

For stool softener (emollient)-containing

Skin rash

Other side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects are less common and may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. However, check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

For hyperosmotic-containing

Bloating; cramping; diarrhea; nausea; gas; increased thirst

For lubricant-containing

Skin irritation surrounding rectal area

For stimulant-containing

Belching; cramping; diarrhea; nausea

For stool softener (emollient)-containing

Stomach and/or intestinal cramping; throat irritation (liquid forms only)

Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor.