Long Term Laxative Use And Side Effects

Dear Ask The Doctor: Dear Sir or Madam I am suffering from an anal fissure and need to be on laxatives. Precisely laxido 1-2 sachets per day. Could you please tell me how long I can stay on laxatives for safely before my body becomes reliant on them? Many Thanks Lauren

Dear Lauren: As for all laxatives, prolonged use is not usually recommended. Oral laxatives may interfere with your body's absorption of some medications and food nutrients and lead to an electrolyte imbalance, especially after prolonged use. An electrolyte imbalance can cause abnormal heart rhythms, weakness, confusion and seizures. A course of treatment for chronic constipation with Laxido Orange should not normally exceed 2 weeks.