Laxative abuse.

DEFINITION: Laxative abuse is the repeated and routine use of laxatives to lose weight, shed unwanted calories, feel thin, feel empty, manage bowel movements, or treat constipation. There are different types of laxatives, but stimulant and bulk agents are the most common. Stimulant laxatives and osmotic laxatives physically alter the bowel’s ability to function, and with excessive use can cause permanent damage. Bulk agents do not have the same physical effects as stimulant laxatives if taken as directed, but the user may become psychologically dependent on these laxatives.