There are more long-term health dangers linked with laxative abuse, in addition to health issues, a lack of self-confidence, depression, and digestion problems. Many of these are irrevocable and catastrophic. Here are a few examples: Failure of the kidneys Damage to the gastrointestinal tract Injury to the liver Impairment of the bowel nerves Because gut nerve injury can cause the digestive tract to operate badly, someone who uses laxatives to help with bowel movements may need to use them frequently.