Occasional constipation usually lasts only a few days and will resolve on its own, Lacy says. “Everyone’s colon is a little different,” he says. But you may find that one type works better for you or causes fewer side effects.
All of them are safe and effective for most patients. In general, OTC laxatives work by increasing water content in the stool so that it’s softer and easier to pass, Wald says.
When boosting fiber and exercise doesn’t do the trick, it’s reasonable to consider an over-the-counter laxative.