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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suggest Ways To Wean Off Laxative Addiction

I have had a serious laxative addiction since I was 13 years old. Before that I purged constantly and starved myself beginning at the age of 8. I m 18 and a college student/volly firefighter/national level athlete. When I try to wean myself off laxatives I ve taken saltwater or miralax or senna tea, diet pills, anything to make sure I stay thin. But I can t stop. I suffer withdrawals and extreme self loathing.
Mon, 8 Sep 2014
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Addiction Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
Long term laxative abuse can be overcome.... but it isn't quick nor easy. First, your gut is used to laxatives and being overstimulated. With stopping laxatives, the gut stops working. Doctor supervision is required to cut back and use other agents (LACTULOSE, and stool softener, and other drugs) to get things going again. Furthermore, there are other psychological issues involved. Laxatives do not change weight all that much. Eating disorders also have to be treated.
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Suggest Ways To Wean Off Laxative Addiction

Long term laxative abuse can be overcome.... but it isn t quick nor easy. First, your gut is used to laxatives and being overstimulated. With stopping laxatives, the gut stops working. Doctor supervision is required to cut back and use other agents (LACTULOSE, and stool softener, and other drugs) to get things going again. Furthermore, there are other psychological issues involved. Laxatives do not change weight all that much. Eating disorders also have to be treated.