Stool Softener: Uses & Side Effects - Cleveland Clinic
WEBHow do stool softeners work? Stool softeners are a type of emollient or surfactant laxative. They work by increasing the amount of water and fat your poop (stool) absorbs.
How Stool Softeners Work and Differ From Other Laxatives
WEBSep 3, 2023 — How Stool Softeners Work . Stool softeners are made of compounds called surfactants that change the consistency of stools so that more moisture can be drawn in. When this happens, stools become softer, …
Stool Softeners: How They Work and When to Use Them
WEBMay 27, 2022 — This article explains stool softeners and how they work. It also discusses stool softeners versus laxatives, when to use stool softeners, and the available types for children and adults. Learn their side effects, how you can soften your stool through your diet, and when to contact your primary care professional about your constipation.
How Stool Softeners Work, and the Side Effects You Should …
WEBJun 18, 2023 — 1. Your Gut Draws In More Water and Fat. The active ingredient in stool softeners — docusate sodium, or sometimes docusate calcium — helps increase the amount of water and fat your poop absorbs, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Constipation Treatments: Laxitives vs. Stool Softeners - WebMD
WEBMar 25, 2023 — Stool softeners keep the stool soft by drawing water from the intestines. Doctors usually suggest stool softeners for people who shouldn’t strain while using the bathroom, especially if...
Stool Softeners vs. Laxatives - Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials
WEBDec 19, 2022 — Stool softeners. Stool softeners increase the amount of water in the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. Docusate sodium (Colace®) or docusate calcium (Surfak®) are common examples.
When to use a stool softener vs. Laxative - Medical News Today
WEBFeb 19, 2024 — Stool softeners are a type of laxative that work to gently lubricate the stool by adding a compound to it that absorbs water. Stool softeners are also called emollient laxatives.
Nonprescription laxatives for constipation: Use with caution
WEBJan 26, 2024 — Laxatives can help relieve and prevent constipation. But not all laxatives are safe for long-term use. Overuse of certain laxatives may lead to dependency and decreased bowel function. By Mayo Clinic Staff. If you've ever been constipated, you may have tried nonprescription laxatives.
Laxatives: What They Do, Types & How To Use - Cleveland Clinic
WEBJul 10, 2023 — Laxatives treat constipation by softening hard stools or stimulating your bowels to get moving so you can poop. Common types include bulk-forming laxatives, osmotics, stool softeners, lubricants and stimulants. Most are available without a prescription. Take them as directed to prevent side effects, like …
Don't bomb the bowel with laxatives - Harvard Health
WEBJun 30, 2023 — How do stool softeners work? Stool softeners work by softening stools to make them easier to pass. They can be in capsule, tablet, liquid, and syrup form and are usually taken at bedtime.