Dr. Kishan Barnwal MBBS , General Physician

Yes, Smulax is associated with bloating and distention. This is because Smulax produces gas upon its degradation in the colon. If you experience excess bloating after taking Smulax, please consult your doctor about taking an alternative medicine. Follow your doctor's advice regarding the right treatment for you.

Dr. Suhas Bhargav MBBS , General Physician

Smulax is available in the form of liquid to be taken orally. For the management of constipation, it is usually, taken once a day and for the management of a liver disease, it is usually taken 3 to 4 times a day. It is important to take the quantity exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Taking higher or the lower dose may have an adverse effect, therefore, one should always be compliant with the prescription label or doctor's recommendation.

Dr. Chinmaya Bal MBBS , General Physician

Smulax 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 Smulax 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 Smulax 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 Smulax 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 Smulax. 

Dr. Suhas Bhargav MBBS , General Physician

Chronic constipation is one of the very common gastrointestinal problems faced by the people suffering from diabetes. The goal of therapy should be to ease symptoms and facilitate defecation. The primary goal of treatment is to change lifestyle by incorporating physical activity, changing diet, eating more fiber, etc. to decrease constipation. The second line of treatment is to recommend an osmotic laxative and in that category, Smulax is one of the most frequently prescribed laxatives. Therefore, yes, Smulax is safe to be used in diabetics.