Stimulant Laxative Policy

At Travelpharm we acknowledge that constipation can be an upsetting and uncomfortable experience, which is why we sell a variety of laxatives to help alleviate the symptoms of short-term constipation, including stimulant laxatives.

The stimulant laxatives available to purchase on Travelpharm contain bisacodyl, senna & sennosides. They may be taken orally or administered rectally.

Stimulant laxatives can be very effective but have the potential for abuse, overuse and accidental misuse. It is inappropriate to use stimulant laxatives to treat long-term constipation without the advice of a doctor. Stimulant laxatives do not aid weight loss and must never be used for this purpose. Stimulant laxatives sold on Travelpharm are intended for the short-term relief of occasional constipation only. Anyone using a stimulant laxative for any other reason should see a prescriber.

In adults, short-term relief of occasional constipation should be treated using dietary changes (an increase in fibrous foods), regular exercise and regular fluids in the first instance. If this is ineffective, bulk-forming laxatives such as Fybogel (ispaghula husk) and osmotic laxatives such as lactulose should be tried, before moving onto stimulant laxatives.

In children, a balanced diet, regular hydration and behavioural interventions in combination with the osmotic laxative macrogol should be tried before stimulant laxatives. Stimulant laxatives are not available to purchase for children under 12 years of age and should only be used in this age group on the advice of a prescriber. Stimulant laxatives may only be supplied to children aged 12-17 years of age under the supervision of a pharmacist.

Overuse of stimulant laxatives can be harmful due to the risk of fluid and electrolyte imbalance and disruption of intestinal function. Always use stimulant laxatives as directed by your pharmacist and follow the dosage on the packaging. At Travelpharm, we monitor the sale of all laxatives and have the policy to limit supplies of medicines containing stimulant laxatives such as senna and bisacodyl as below to reflect short-term use for occasional constipation:

If you find you need stimulant laxatives regularly, or that you are using them for reasons other than short-term relief of constipation, you should speak to your GP.