Over-the-counter laxatives for weight control are common and widely available to consumers of all ages. Not only do these products rarely work as advertised, the abuse of these laxative products have been linked to serious chronic and acute health consequences such as hypokalemia, hepatic and renal failure, cardia arrhythmia, metabolic acidosis, and even death. Studies have shown that adolescents who use over-the-counter laxatives for weight control are at risk for future eating disorder diagnosis. Over-the-counter laxative product abuse impacts people of all genders, ages, races, ethnicities, and socioeconomic statuses. An Act prohibiting the sale of nonprescription laxative products to minors and requiring sales behind the counter will help protect young people from these dangerous lethal products.
Below you will find important materials to help you bring this important advocacy effort to
your state and community:
