Even though many laxatives are available over-the-counter, it's best to talk to your doctor about laxative use and which kind may be best for you. Oral laxatives may interfere with your body's absorption of some medications and nutrients.
Some laxatives can lead to an electrolyte imbalance, especially after prolonged use. Electrolytes — which include calcium, chloride, potassium, magnesium and sodium — regulate a number of body functions. An electrolyte imbalance can cause abnormal heart rhythms, weakness, confusion and seizures. Some products combine different types of laxatives, such as a stimulant and a stool softener. But combination products don't necessarily work more effectively than single-ingredient products.
In addition, they may be more likely to cause side effects. A single-ingredient laxative may work better for you. Read labels to make sure you know what you're taking, and use with caution. If you've recently given birth, consult your doctor before using laxatives.
Although they're usually safe to use during breast-feeding, some ingredients may pass into breast milk and cause diarrhea in nursing infants. If you're dependent on laxatives to have a bowel movement, ask your doctor for suggestions on how to gradually withdraw from them and restore your colon's natural ability to contract.
There is a problem with information submitted for this request. Sign up for free, and stay up-to-date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID, plus expert advice on managing your health. Error Email field is required. This then sets you up for a more comfortable bowel movement, one that should not require straining.
The primary active ingredient in OTC stool softener products is docusate. The medicine is thought to work locally within your large intestine. Most stool softener products should soften your stool and trigger the urge for a bowel movement within 12 to 72 hours three days. Typically, a stool softener is taken before you go to bed at night. Make sure to follow package directions and follow the exact recommended dosage.
If you choose a capsule or tablet form, drink a full 8-ounce glass of water as you take the medication. Regardless of the type of product used, make sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Stool softeners are designed for short-term use. This means that you would use them for approximately one week. If you are considering taking a stool softener for longer than one week, ask your healthcare provider to make sure that it is safe for you to do so.
Stool softeners are not absorbed into the bloodstream and are typically well-tolerated. Side effects are rare. Some people may experience mild side effects such as nausea, abdominal cramps, and bloating. Throat irritation may occur as a result of using a liquid form of the medication. If you experience any of these mild symptoms, discontinue the use of the medication.
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience severe symptoms of:. People who take stool softeners on a chronic basis may find that they develop a tolerance to the medication and need to increase their dosage over time.
Taking stool softeners on a long-term basis should only be done under the advisement of your healthcare provider.
Stool softeners may be safe for children or for people who are pregnant, but also should only be used with the permission of your healthcare provider or your child's pediatrician. Stool softeners are often considered a better choice when there is a particular need for you to keep your stools soft so as to avoid straining during bowel movements. This would include the following circumstances:. Laxatives, on the other hand, are the better choice for the treatment of constipation.
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Sign Me Up. Print This Page Click to Print. You might also be interested in…. Some products provide dosages for children who are younger than 12 years, but you should talk to your doctor before giving any laxative to a child. Most people can use laxatives without any side effects, but some side effects are possible.
The following table lists some of the milder as well as the more serious side effects of stool softeners and other laxatives. The more serious side effects are usually much less common. If you do have serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately. Laxatives can also interact with other drugs, vitamins, and supplements that you take.
Your doctor may even recommend a specific laxative, depending on the medication you take. For example, mineral oil can interact with stool softeners. You may have heard that you can use laxatives to lose weight.
However, there are no studies that support the use of laxatives for weight loss. Further, using higher doses of laxatives for long periods can result in a much higher risk of the following effects, some of which can be severe:. With any laxative, there are things you can do to help them work their best. The following tips can help you work with your laxative to relieve constipation and keep you regular. We asked doctors to investigate whether claims about the Squatty Potty are true or false. Is there an average number of times a day you should poop, and what are some of the factors that affect frequency?
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