Osmotic laxatives draw water into the bowel because they are hypertonic, essentially flushing the colon. Examples of osmotic laxatives include milk of magnesia (which also softens stools), sodium ...
Non-stimulant laxatives and bulk-forming laxatives are safer for long-term use, provided they are used correctly. These include: Psyllium Calcium polycarbophil Methylcellulose Osmotic laxatives ...