Yes, laxatives are eligible for purchase with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).
Why Are Laxatives FSA/HSA Eligible?
Laxatives are used to relieve constipation, a diagnosable medical condition that may result from dietary issues, medication side effects, or chronic digestive conditions. Because laxatives are intended to treat a specific health issue, they qualify as eligible medical expenses under IRS Code Section 213(d).
Thanks to the CARES Act of 2020, over-the-counter (OTC) laxatives are FSA- and HSA-eligible without a prescription.
According to the SIGIS Eligible Product List Criteria, laxatives are considered eligible as long as they are used to treat a medical condition and contain an active medicinal ingredient.
FSA- and HSA-eligible laxatives include:
Stool softeners (e.g., docusate sodium)
Fiber-based laxatives (e.g., psyllium husk, methylcellulose)
Stimulant laxatives (e.g., senna, bisacodyl)
Osmotic laxatives (e.g., polyethylene glycol, magnesium citrate)
Suppositories or enemas labeled for constipation relief
Children’s laxative products
These products qualify as long as they are marketed to treat constipation or irregularity.
What’s Not Covered?
Products that are marketed as general wellness supplements, herbal remedies, or fiber blends without a specific medical indication for constipation are not eligible. This includes:
Dietary fiber powders or gummies with no treatment claim
Herbal teas or detox drinks
Probiotic blends labeled for digestion but not constipation relief
To be eligible, the product must include an active medicinal ingredient and be sold as a treatment for a diagnosed condition like constipation.
How to Buy Laxatives with Your FSA or HSA
You can purchase laxatives directly at buyFSA.com using your FSA or HSA card. Every item listed on buyFSA.com is FSA- and HSA-eligible, so there’s no guesswork or reimbursement hassle.
If purchasing elsewhere:
Use your FSA or HSA card at checkout (in-store or online)
Choose products labeled for the treatment of constipation
Save your receipt in case your plan administrator requests documentation
Avoid general wellness or herbal supplements not tied to medical treatment
For more details, refer to the SIGIS Eligible Product List Criteria.
