laksatif

Laksatif is the term used in Indonesian and Malay for laxatives, medicines that relieve constipation by promoting bowel movements or softening stool. It is used in medical and consumer contexts to treat constipation and to clear the bowels before procedures.

Laksatif products are classified into several active-ingredient categories, including stimulant laxatives (which increase intestinal motility), osmotic laxatives (which draw water into the stool), bulk-forming laxatives (which add stool bulk), and stool softeners (which help water and fat mix with stool). Common active ingredients appear in many products, and doses vary by age and product type. Availability ranges from over-the-counter formulations to prescription medications.

Usage should follow the product label or a clinician’s instructions. Overuse or long-term use can cause dehydration, electrolyte disturbances, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea, and may lead to dependence on laxatives. Some groups—such as young children, pregnant or nursing individuals, and people with certain medical conditions—should seek medical advice before use or choose alternatives; potential interactions with other medicines exist.

Etymology: The word laksatif derives from the English laxative, which itself comes from Latin laxare, meaning to loosen or relax. In Indonesian and Malay medical usage, it has become the standard term for such medicines.

See also: Constipation; Digestive health; Gastrointestinal pharmacology.