Which class of drugs promotes bowel movements and relieves constipation?

• A. Laxative
• B. Antidiarrheal
• C. Stool softener
• D. Emollient

Answer: (A)

Laxatives are drugs that relieve constipation by increasing stool frequency or making stool easier to pass. They work in different ways, such as adding bulk to stool to stimulate movement, drawing water into the bowel to soften and loosen stool, directly stimulating peristalsis, or simply softening or lubricating stool to ease passage. Because the goal described—promoting bowel movements and relieving constipation—aligns with what laxatives do, this class is the best fit. Antidiarrheals, on the other hand, slow gut motility to reduce stool frequency, which would not relieve constipation. Stool softeners aid passage by softening stool but are ultimately part of the laxative category; the emphasis here is on promoting movement and relief of constipation, which laxatives provide.