Laxative

Laxative, drug or food taken to promote bowel action and to treat constipation. Laxatives may act as irritants (cascara, senna, phenolphthalein, castor oil), softeners (mineral oil), or bulk agents (bran, methylcellulose, magnesium sulphate). Laxative abuse may cause gastrointestinal tract disorders, potassium deficiency, and lung disease.