The Best Laxatives
We compared seven laxatives on owner ratings, expert reviews, and price. MiraLAX (asin B01MTPCPLS) is our top pick for its effectiveness and minimal side effects.
Updated
The bottom line
MiraLAX (asin B01MTPCPLS) is our top pick due to its high owner satisfaction (4.8/5 from 43107 ratings) and physician recommendation. It works by hydrating and softening stool with minimal side effects. The closest alternative is Amazon Basics Stool Softener Laxative (asin B07BHYGRV8), which provides gentle relief at a lower price (4.6/5 from 44444 ratings). For budget-conscious buyers, Amazon Basics is a good option, though MiraLAX offers slightly better effectiveness and fewer side effects.
MiraLAX $29.97
Best overall laxative for effectiveness and safety
MiraLAX (asin B01MTPCPLS) is highly rated by owners (4.8/5 from 43107 ratings) and recommended by doctors for its gentle, non-stimulant formula. It works within 1-3 days without causing harsh side effects. The tradeoff is its higher price ($29.97), but the effectiveness and safety make it worth the cost for most users.
Check price on Amazon
Amazon Basics Stool Softener Laxative $2.63
Affordable and effective stool softener
Amazon Basics Stool Softener Laxative (asin B07BHYGRV8) provides gentle relief from constipation at a lower price ($2.63). It is rated 4.6/5 by 44444 owners and is gluten-free. The tradeoff is slightly lower effectiveness compared to MiraLAX, but it is a good option for those on a budget.
Check price on AmazonThe field, ranked
- MiraLAX Best for effectiveness and minimal side effects 10.0/10 $29.97 Amazon
- Amazon Basics Stool Softener Laxative Best budget option with good effectiveness 9.0/10 $2.63 Amazon
- Dulcolax Tablets Fast-acting but may cause more side effects 8.0/10 $16.12 Amazon
- MiraLAX Effective but variable owner experiences 7.0/10 $3.53 Amazon
- Colace Stool Softener Constipation Relief Gentle relief but higher price 6.0/10 $47.99 Amazon
- Colace Stool Softener Constipation Relief Gentle relief but limited owner ratings 5.0/10 $26.77 Amazon
- MiraLAX Laxative Powder Older version with fewer ratings 4.0/10 $13.98 Amazon
Who should buy which
If you prioritize effectiveness and are willing to pay a bit more, MiraLAX (asin B01MTPCPLS) is the best choice. For those on a budget, Amazon Basics Stool Softener Laxative (asin B07BHYGRV8) offers a good balance of price and effectiveness. If you need fast relief, Dulcolax Tablets (asin B000063XTO) are a good option despite potentially more side effects.
Also-rans
MiraLAX (asin B0HDPSLSRF) and Colace Stool Softener Constipation Relief (asin B00596GBU8) are effective but have higher prices and fewer owner ratings. Colace Stool Softener Constipation Relief (asin B0DYPGH5FQ) and MiraLAX Laxative Powder (asin B000NIAZNG) have limited owner ratings and are older versions with less evidence.