What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you or someone you're monitoring may be using laxatives secretly or excessively. It's often used when there's concern about unexplained diarrhea, weight loss, or digestive issues that could be linked to hidden laxative use. This is a compliance and monitoring tool rather than a general diagnostic test.

What's included in this test?

This test screens a stool sample for common laxative compounds, which helps identify whether laxatives are being used even when someone denies it. Detecting these substances matters because chronic hidden laxative use can lead to serious issues like dehydration and mineral imbalances that are otherwise hard to explain.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account along with an explanation of what a positive or negative finding means. If the test comes back positive, a simple next step is to have an open conversation about laxative use and consider a follow-up test to confirm the pattern. You can download the standard lab report directly from your account at any time. If you retest in the future, the trends feature lets you track results side by side over time.

How can I naturally support healthy digestion?

Staying hydrated, eating enough fiber from fruits and vegetables, and staying physically active all support regular, healthy bowel movements without relying on laxatives. Reducing processed foods and managing stress can also help your digestive system work more naturally. If someone has been using laxatives to manage weight or bowel habits, working on these habits gradually can reduce dependence over time.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being received at the lab. You'll get a notification once your report is available in your account, so there's no need to check in repeatedly. If your situation feels urgent, don't wait on results before seeking medical care.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for anyone monitoring a loved one for suspected covert laxative use, such as in cases of disordered eating. It's also used in situations where compliance monitoring is needed to confirm someone is not secretly using laxatives while under a health or treatment plan.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Unexplained chronic diarrhea, sudden weight loss, dehydration, muscle weakness, or electrolyte imbalances without a clear medical cause can all be signs worth investigating with this test. Frequent, unexplained digestive upset combined with secretive behavior around bathroom habits is another common reason people consider testing.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means laxative compounds were detected in the stool sample, suggesting recent use. This can help explain unexplained digestive symptoms or confirm suspected covert use, and it's a signal to address the underlying reasons for laxative use rather than just the physical symptoms.

What causes someone to misuse laxatives?

Laxative misuse is often tied to eating disorders, a desire for rapid weight loss, or a mistaken belief that laxatives help with calorie control. It can also happen from long-term overuse of over-the-counter products for constipation that turns into dependence. Addressing the root cause, often with behavioral support, is more effective than stopping laxative use alone.

How often should I retest?

Retesting frequency depends on the reason for monitoring, but many people retest every few weeks during an active monitoring period to confirm patterns or check on progress. If the goal is ongoing compliance monitoring, periodic retesting on a set schedule works best. Always space out testing enough to reflect real changes in behavior.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Laxative Abuse Stool Test - Compliance Monitoring

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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