Osmotic laxatives draw water into the bowel because they are hypertonic, essentially flushing the colon. Examples of osmotic laxatives include milk of magnesia (which also softens stools), sodium ...

Depending on the specific type used, laxatives can vary in their onset of action. Bulking agents, which work similarly to dietary fiber, may take a few days to produce an effect. Osmotic laxatives ...

MiraLAX is a type of osmotic laxative, which encourages more water to be drawn into the stool, making it easier to use the bathroom. Osmotic laxatives like MiraLAX are safe for long-term use ...