No, you cannot buy laxatives under 18, as it is an over-the-counter medication that is regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration. Laxatives are intended for use as decreasing constipation and should only be taken when prescribed by a doctor or other licensed healthcare professional.
Only adults 18 and older are allowed to purchase these drugs from a pharmacy or store without a prescription. Additionally, it is important to understand the possible side effects of taking laxatives and to only take them as directed by a health care provider.
Potential side effects of overuse include dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, abdominal cramps, and gastrointestinal distress. Therefore, it is advised to consult a healthcare professional before taking any kind of laxative, even if it is an over-the-counter medication.
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Can a 17 year old take laxatives?
No, 17 year olds should not take laxatives. Laxatives are intended to treat occasional constipation and should not be used as a way to lose or control weight. Laxatives may have serious side effects, such as nausea, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, abdominal cramps, and severe irritation of the intestines, and long-term use can lead to problems in the intestines and liver.
If a 17 year old is experiencing chronic constipation it is important to speak to their doctor about treatment options and potential causes, as underlying issues such as certain medications, dietary issues, or medical conditions may be the cause.
Furthermore, many types of laxatives are available in over-the-counter formulas that are strong and require medical supervision when using them. Consulting a doctor is the safest way to determine if using laxatives is appropriate.
How old do you have to be to take a laxative?
The age at which you should start taking laxatives depends on the type of laxative you are using. Generally, it is not recommended for children under the age of 6 to take any type of laxative without consulting their doctor.
For older children and adults, laxatives can be used at any age, though the specific age depends on the type of laxative.
Stimulant laxatives are not recommended for children under 12, although a doctor may prescribe them for a specific medical reason. Bulk-forming laxatives can be used for children ages 3 and up, again with the approval of a doctor.
Osmotic laxatives may be used for children 10 and older, but again, speaking with a doctor is important for correct dosage and usage. Stool softeners are generally considered safe for all ages but should not be used by children under the age of 12 under any circumstances.
It is always best to speak with your doctor before giving your child any type of laxative. Additionally, you should always follow the instructions on the package or as provided by your doctor.
What age can children have laxatives?
Laxative use in children should generally be avoided, as the exact age at which a child can take a laxative safely varies depending on the particular laxative. Many medical professionals believe that using laxatives in children should be a last resort, and usually are only prescribed if the child is experiencing severe constipation and other measures, such as dietary and lifestyle changes, have been tried and failed.
If a healthcare professional does prescribe a laxative for a child, it is important that it is taken only as directed, as incorrect use of laxatives in children can lead to serious side effects. Parents should take safety precautions when giving laxatives to children and should always be supervised by a medical professional.
It is recommended that children under the age of 2 should not be given laxatives, and any laxative taken by a child under the age of 6 should be monitored carefully by a healthcare professional. For most children ages 6-17, the safest laxative to use is a bulk laxative or a stimulant laxative, as long as it is used under proper supervision and guidance of a medical professional.
Can you get laxatives over-the-counter?
Yes, many types of laxatives are available on over-the-counter. The types of laxatives available include stimulant laxatives which encourage muscle contraction in the intestines and helps move the stool through the intestine, osmotic laxatives which draw water into the intestines to help move food along and lubricant laxatives which coat the stool in oil or other lubricants to help it pass.
Some of the commonly used over-the-counter laxatives include Dulcolax, Ex-Lax, Colace, Miralax, Milk of Magnesia, and Metamucil. However, it is important to check with a doctor or pharmacist before taking any over-the-counter medication.
Not all laxatives are suitable for all people, and your doctor or pharmacist can help advise on the best product for your specific needs and condition.
Can under 16 buy laxatives?
No, individuals under the age of 16 cannot purchase laxatives in most countries. This is because laxatives are considered to be medications that should only be taken under medical supervision. Most pharmacies will not sell laxatives to customers under the age of 16.
This can vary from country to country, so it is best to check your local laws and regulations regarding the sale of laxatives. Additionally, parents and guardians of minors should be aware of the potential side effects and risks associated with the use of laxatives and ensure that it is used as directed.
If a minor is experiencing constipation or other digestive problems, it is best to consult with a licensed medical professional to determine the most appropriate course of treatment.
What can I give my 13 year old for constipation?
If your thirteen year old is experiencing constipation, it is important to discuss the issue with their doctor to determine the underlying cause and any other necessary treatments. While waiting for an appointment, there are some lifestyle changes that you can make to help encourage relief.
First, it is important to increase their fiber intake. Fiber helps by keeping stools soft and helps them move more quickly through the digestive tract. Foods that are high in fiber are whole grain breads and cereals, beans and legumes, fruits, and vegetables.
It is recommended that individuals consume between 25-38 grams of fiber each day.
It is also important to make sure your child is receiving enough water each day. Dehydration can cause constipation, and drinking enough water can help flush out the system. Try to keep track of the amount of water your child consumes each day, with the goal of having your child drink six to eight glasses of water each day.
Encourage regular physical activity. Exercise helps to stimulate the digestive tract, and trying to work physical activity into their daily routine can be helpful.
Finally, getting enough sleep is important for overall digestive health. It can also help to decrease feelings of stress, which can be both a cause and effect of constipation. Try to keep a scheduled sleep routine so your child can get at least 8 hours of sleep each night.
In addition to lifestyle changes, your doctor may also be able to prescribe medications to help with constipation. They may advise the use of over-the-counter laxatives to help with passing stools. However, it is important to consult with their doctor before relying on these medications in order to prevent any potential side effects or misuse, as laxatives can be habit-forming.
How long do laxatives last in your system?
The effects of laxatives vary depending on the type used. Generally, stimulant laxatives (such as bisacodyl or sennosides) work within 6 to 12 hours. Saline laxatives (such as magnesium citrate) are even faster and typically take 30 minutes to 6 hours to take effect.
Lubricant laxatives (such as mineral oil) generally take up to 24 hours to work. It is important to understand that laxatives do not provide long-term solutions for constipation. Instead, they should be used when needed for short-term relief, such as if you’re stopped up due to a recent meal or have trouble passing a particularly hard stool.
What is a laxative overdose?
A laxative overdose occurs when an individual accidentally or intentionally ingests too much of a laxative medication or other products containing laxative ingredients. Laxatives are used to treat constipation and help facilitate the passing of stool – however, taking too much of a laxative usually leads to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances due to the excessive loss of fluids from the intestines.
An overdose of laxatives is typically a result of either accidental or intentional abuse of laxative products. Symptoms of a laxative overdose may include stomach pain, cramps, nausea, vomiting, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and in extreme cases, neurological complications and/or damage to the bowels.
Treatment for a laxative overdose usually involves intravenous fluids to assist in replenishing fluids and electrolytes, removal of the laxatives from the body, and discussion of strategies to reduce the risk of recurrent abuse of these products.
It is important to note that long-term use or abuse of laxatives can cause serious health complications and it is strongly advised to consult with a medical professional before taking this type of medication.
Is constipation normal at 17?
Constipation is a common issue at any age, however it’s important to address it, especially for someone at the age of 17. Although constipation can be due to a variety of causes, such as a change in diet, dehydration, lack of exercise, intake of certain medications, or the presence of medical conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, it is important to investigate it further.
Eating more fiber and drinking plenty of water can help to reduce the risk of constipation and should be encouraged. Additionally, regular exercise can help to keep the digestive system healthy. It is also a good idea to monitor your diet, tracking possible triggers of constipation, as well as discuss your concerns with a doctor.
A doctor can offer advice and suggest lifestyle changes or possible treatments that can help to control or prevent constipation.
How much Miralax can a 17 year old take?
The recommended dose for adults and children 17 years and older is 17 grams (about 1 heaping tablespoon) of Miralax Powder or 2 capfuls of the concentrated liquid laxative solution (Miralax 17. 9 g Packets) once a day.
As with any medicine, the amount taken should be carefully monitored and adjusted as needed according to your doctor’s advice. It is important to talk to your doctor before using Miralax or any other laxative for more than one week, since long-term use may have potential side effects such as electrolyte imbalances or an overly dependent bowel.
Additionally, if you are pregnant or nursing it is recommended that you speak with your doctor before taking Miralax.
Is there an age limit on laxatives?
Yes, there is an age limit on the use of laxatives. Generally, most laxatives are not intended for use in children aged 12 years or younger and should not be used without the supervision of a healthcare provider.
Additionally, people aged 18 or younger should not use some stimulant laxatives as they can be habit forming and lead to electrolyte imbalances. Laxatives can be helpful for certain age groups, but always consult with your healthcare provider first.
It is important to note that some laxatives may interact with specific medications, so be sure to tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any medication before taking a laxative. Long-term use of laxatives is not recommended and should be avoided to prevent dependency on them.
Does apple juice help with constipation?
Yes, apple juice can help with constipation. Apple juice is a natural laxative due to its high natural sugar content. Drinking apple juice regularly can help to stimulate the movement of your digestive system and help you to pass stool more easily, reducing constipation and any related abdominal discomfort.
It is also rich in vitamins and minerals that are necessary for normal digestive functioning such as magnesium and potassium, which can help to relax the muscles of your digestive system and improve digestion.
Additionally, the dietary fibers found in apple juice help to add bulk to your stool, creating an easier to pass product. Try drinking 8 to 16 ounces of pure, unsweetened apple juice each day to help with your constipation.
You can also increase your intake of dietary fiber by eating apples or other high-fiber fruits or vegetables to increase their effect.
How quickly does Miralax work?
Miralax (polyethylene glycol 3350) is a laxative that helps to relieve constipation. It works by softening and increasing the moisture content of stools, allowing them to be passed more easily. The amount of time it takes for Miralax to work varies from person to person, but most people typically find that it starts to take effect within 1-3 days of beginning treatment.
Some people may find that results come more quickly (in as little as 24 hours) or may take a few days more for the full effects of the medication to take hold. It is important to understand that changes can take place as your body adjusts to the medication and there can be a period of transition in which stool consistency changes with increased hydration.
It is also important to note that Miralax should only be taken as directed and not to exceed the recommended dosage.
Is 17 grams of Miralax a lot?
The amount of Miralax being taken depends on the individual need. Typically, the recommended dosage for adults and children 17 years of age and older is 17 to 34 grams per day, taken in divided doses.
However, it is important to check with your healthcare professional to determine an appropriate dose for you. It is also important to be aware of any potential drug interaction. High doses can cause side effects such as abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, vomiting, and headache.
Therefore, it is best to consult your healthcare professional if you have any questions or doubts about the recommended dosage.
