10 Best Otc Laxatives 2025 in the United States

MiraLAX Gentle Constipation Relief Laxative Powder is designed for individuals dealing with occasional constipation. As an osmotic laxative, it works in a natural way by using water in your body to hydrate and soften stool, typically taking 1 to 3 days to take effect. This makes it suitable for those who prefer a more gradual relief as opposed to immediate action provided by stimulant laxatives. Additionally, MiraLAX is favored by physicians, being the top recommended OTC laxative since its market release in 2007.

A standout feature of MiraLAX is that it aims to avoid harsh side effects like gas, bloating, cramping, or sudden urgency, which can be a concern with other laxatives. The product is simple to use; you just need to dissolve the appropriate amount of powder in a beverage of your choice without worrying about an unpleasant taste or gritty texture. Furthermore, MiraLAX is free from gluten, sugar, and preservatives, making it a versatile option for individuals with dietary restrictions.

On the downside, users need to wait up to three days for the full effect, which might not be ideal for those seeking immediate relief. The product is compact and lightweight, ensuring it’s easy to store and handle. With its approval from healthcare professionals and ease of use, MiraLAX could be a good fit for most people seeking gentle constipation relief without unwanted side effects.

Amazon Basic Care ClearLax is an osmotic laxative containing Polyethylene Glycol 3350, the same active ingredient found in MiraLAX. It is designed to treat occasional constipation by increasing the frequency of bowel movements and softening stool, generally producing results in 1 to 3 days.

This product is suitable for adults and children over 17 years of age and is unflavored, which makes it easy to mix into any beverage without altering the taste. The powder is also grit-free, sugar-free, and gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs.

Though the onset of action being 1 to 3 days might be slower than other laxatives for those needing immediate relief, it is a good choice for those seeking a gentle and gradual solution to constipation, especially if they prefer a product that can be mixed discreetly into drinks.

MiraLAX Powder Laxative offers a reliable solution for those struggling with occasional constipation and irregularity. As an osmotic laxative, it works by drawing water into the colon to soften stools, making them easier to pass. One of its major strengths is that it's unflavored and grit-free, meaning it can be easily mixed into any beverage without affecting the taste or texture. This makes it a versatile choice for many users.

Additionally, MiraLAX is clinically proven to be effective and is considered natural, which can be reassuring for those concerned about synthetic ingredients. The onset of action for MiraLAX typically ranges from 1-3 days, which is generally suitable for individuals looking for a gentle and gradual relief from constipation. Its packaging includes 34 doses within a 20.4-ounce container, providing good value for those who need a longer-term solution. Another positive aspect is that it ships with all relevant accessories and is easy to use.

MiraLAX can be a solid choice for those needing a gentle, effective, and easy-to-use laxative to manage occasional constipation.