Dr. Uday Nath Sahoo MBBS , Internal Medicine

Constipation: Laxan is non-digestible in human beings because of which, it passes as it is into the large intestine. The resident bacteria in the intestine act on it to convert it into lactic acid, acetic acid, and formic acid, drawing fluid into the stool and thus softening it. This makes it easier to pass the stool, and thus helps in relieving constipation.

Hepatic encephalopathy: In the event of liver failure, ammonia detoxification is difficult. If the level of ammonia in the bloodstream increases, it can reach the brain and damage it. Thus it is important to get rid of the excess ammonia. Laxan pulls ammonia from the bloodstream and helps in discharging it via the stool, thus preventing brain damage.

Dr. Chinmaya Bal MBBS , General Physician

Laxan can cause diarrhea and as a result, dehydration. Therefore, you must talk to your doctor when you experience any symptoms of dehydration like dry mouth, rapid heartbeat, feeling dizzy, lack of energy, etc. Your doctor will advise you on whether to continue taking Laxan or go for an alternative medicine. In the meantime, you can ORS for relief from dehydration.

Dr Anjum Mujawar MBBS, MBBS , Emergency Medicine

Older people frequently suffer from constipation. The osmotic laxatives like Laxan find a place in their therapy, however, some of the side effects associated with these agents are abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea and flatulence. These side effects are present because Laxan is converted to carboxylic acids like acetic acid, lactic acid and formic acid by the intestinal bacteria. Further, the patients may also develop a disliking to the sweet taste of the Laxan. 

Dr. Gaurav MBBS , General Physician

Yes, it is safe to take Laxan for as long as it is prescribed by your doctor, provided you take the exact prescribed amount. However, in some people, Laxan may cause some side effects like nausea, vomiting, gas, diarrhea, stomach pain or cramps. If any of these side effects occur, one must speak to the doctor immediately. 

Dr. Piyush Malav MBBS, MS , General Surgery

You might have to take Laxan for as long as constipation or hepatic encephalopathy lasts. For constipation, your doctor might prescribe it for a week. For hepatic encephalopathy, your doctor might prescribe it for several months. It is extremely important that you take Laxan for as long as it is prescribed your doctor.