Information
What Is Laxido and What Is It Used For?
Laxido Orange is a sugar-free osmotic laxative used to treat chronic constipation and faecal impaction. Containing macrogol 3350, Laxido works by pulling water into the bowel, helping to hydrate and soften stools, making them easier to pass.
Laxido contains electrolytes like sodium chloride, sodium hydrogen carbonate and potassium chloride. These help maintain hydration and mineral balance.
As a pharmacy treatment, Laxido Orange can only be purchased from registered pharmacies, including online pharmacies like Quick Meds.
How Does Laxido Work?
Known as an osmotic laxative, the primary ingredient in Laxido, (macrogol 3350) works by retaining water in the bowel. This helps to rehydrate the stool, softening it and adding volume to it.
The increased volume stretches the bowl, promoting peristalsis (muscle contractions) which, when combined with the softening, can help pass stools more easily. This usually takes 2-3 days to work.
Pulling water from around the body can risk dehydration. This is why Laxido is also formulated with electrolytes, such as sodium chloride, sodium hydrogen carbonate and potassium chloride. These electrolytes reduce the risk of dehydration whilst maintaining mineral balance.
Laxido Dosage Guide
Laxido is administered as an oral solution. To prepare a dose, the contents of one sachet should be dissolved in 125ml of water. The dose to take depends on the condition being treated and summarised in the table below
| Condition | Patient Group | Dose | Treatment Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chronic Constipation | Adults, adolescents aged 12+ and the elderly | 1-3 sachets daily | Up to 2 weeks. |
| Long-term Constipation | Patients with: Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease, taking constipating medication | 1-2 sachets daily | As clinically required and as directed by GP |
| Faecal Impaction | Adults, Adolescents aged 12+ and the Elderly | 8 sachets daily, consumed within 6 hours | Up to 3 days |
If you have a heart condition, do not take more than two sachets in any one-hour period. For faecal impaction, 8 sachets can be dissolved in 1 litre of water, refrigerated and consumed within 6 hours
Laxido Side Effects
As with all medication, Laxido may cause side effects though not everyone experiences them. Most are mild and resolve on their own.
The most common side effects are:
- Bloating or wind
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea and vomiting,
Other more serious side effects include:
- Signs of an allergic reaction - swelling of the face, tongue lips or face, difficulty breathing or a rash
- Signs of fluid/electrolyte imbalance - swelling of the ankles, feeling weak or an irregular heartbeat.
If you experience these side effects, you should stop taking Laxido and contact a healthcare professional immediately.
The sachets contain 187mg sodium. If you have kidney problems or on a low-sodium diet, you should speak to your GP before use.
Who Can and Cannot Take Laxido?
Laxido is suitable for adults and children over 12 years and the elderly. The treatment can be used in pregnancy and breastfeeding, as it's not significantly absorbed, though only with GP advice.
As it is sugar-free, Laxido is suitable for diabetic patients.
The treatment is contraindicated and should not be taken by anyone who:
- Is allergic to the ingredients
- Has an intestinal blockage or perforation
- Suffers from inflammatory conditions such as Ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease or toxic megacolon.
Those who take other oral medication are advised to leave a 1-hour gap between these and Laxido. This is important for oral contraceptives and time-sensitive treatments like for epilepsy, as Laxido may affect the absorption of these medications.
Laxido vs Movicol vs Cosmocol
| Feature | Laxido Orange | Movicol | Cosmocol |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Macrogol 3350 | Macrogol 3350 | Macrogol 3350 |
| Type | Generic | Original brand | Generic |
| Contains electrolytes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Sugar-free | Yes | Varies by variant | Yes |
| Flavour | Orange | Lemon/lime or plain | Orange |
| Prescription required | No (OTC) | No (OTC) | No (OTC) |
| Typical cost | Lower | Higher | Lower |
| Available online | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Laxido, Movicol and Cosmocol all contain macrogol 3350 and are bioequivalent. This means they work in the same way to the same extent. The difference lies in the branding and, in the case of Movicol, the flavour and whether it is sugar-free or not.
Laxido and Cosmocol are both generic alternatives and usually more affordable, compared to Movicol.
How to Take Laxido Orange Sachets
To take Laxido:
- Empty one full sachet into a glass
- Mix with 125ml of water
- Stir until the powder is dissolved
- Drink the entire solution.
For optimum effectiveness, it is recommended to maintain adequate hydration throughout the day. For those who dislike the taste, a small amount of squash can be added. Take the doses at consistent times. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember but do not double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.
FAQs
How many Laxido sachets per day?
For constipation, the usual dose is one sachet taken one to three times daily, depending on severity. For faecal impaction, up to eight sachets may be taken within a six-hour window for up to three days. Always follow your pharmacist or GP’s advice on the correct dose for your situation.
How long does Laxido take to work?
Laxido typically takes 24 to 48 hours to produce a bowel movement. Because it softens the stool rather than forcing the bowel to contract, the relief is gradual and comfortable. If symptoms have not improved after two weeks, speak to your pharmacist or GP.
Can you take Laxido long term?
Laxido is usually taken for up to two weeks for constipation. Longer-term use may be appropriate for people with ongoing conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or those taking medication that causes constipation. Your GP can advise on whether long-term use is suitable for you.
Can you take Laxido during pregnancy?
There is no evidence to suggest Laxido is harmful during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, it is always recommended to consult your GP or midwife before starting any new medication during pregnancy.
What are the side effects of Laxido?
Common side effects include diarrhoea, stomach pain, bloating, wind, and nausea. These are usually mild and improve once treatment stops or your bowel movement returns to normal.
Seek medical help if you experience severe diarrhoea, vomiting, shortness of breath, or swelling.
Is Laxido the same as Movicol?
Laxido and Movicol contain the same active ingredient, macrogol 3350, with electrolytes. They work in the same way to treat constipation. Laxido is a generic alternative to Movicol and is typically available at a lower price.