I am constipated and probably need to take a laxative but am worried about side effects. do laxatives give you diarrhea

Laxatives: This is a loaded question. Start by defining exactly what you mean by constipation, and keeping a journal of what happens daily. Laxatives may or may not be appropriate and should be used regularly only under medical supervision. To address constipation on your own, first eat 3 regular meals per day, drink two liters of water per day, cut out caffeine and alcohol, and add fiber to each meal.

Yes: If laxatives are used excessively or not according to directions, one can have diarrhea.