This article was co-authored by Dale Prokupek, MD. Dale Prokupek, MD is a board-certified Internist and Gastroenterologist who runs a private practice based in Los Angeles, California. Dr. Prokupek is also a staff physician at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and an associate clinical professor of medicine at the Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Dr. Prokupek has over 30 years of medical experience and specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the liver, stomach, and colon, including chronic hepatitis C, colon cancer, hemorrhoids, anal condyloma, and digestive diseases related to chronic immune deficiency. He holds a BS in Zoology from the University of Wisconsin – Madison and an MD from the Medical College of Wisconsin. He completed an internal medicine residency at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and a gastroenterology fellowship at the UCLA Geffen School of Medicine.
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Stool softeners are usually recommended as a short-term treatment for constipation. They work by drawing water into your stool, making them easier to pass. This medication can be very effective as long as it is taken properly, under your doctor’s supervision. If you are on any other medications, make sure you confirm with your doctor that it is safe for you to take stool softeners.[1]
Steps
Using Stool Softeners
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1Get a prescription from your doctor. Stool softeners should only be taken on your doctor’s instruction. Your doctor can write a prescription for this medication for you to treat hemorrhoids or other bowel issues. They may also recommend stool softeners if you have recently given birth and you are struggling with your bowel movements.[2]
- Common brand name stool softeners include Col-Rite, Colace, DSS, Diocto, Dulcolax, Docusil, and Fleet Sof-Lax.
- Stool softeners are usually sold in capsule form or as a syrup.
- You can get some stool softeners over-the-counter, but this is not recommended. If you do this, make sure you speak to your pharmacist first about taking this medication.
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2Take syrup stool softeners with water, milk, or juice. Syrup stool softener can have an unpleasant taste. You can mask it by putting the stool softener in half a glass of water, milk, or fruit juice.[3]Advertisement
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3Follow the recommended dosage. Your doctor will tell you how much stool softener you should be taking a day. The dosage will depend on your body and your medical needs. You can also follow the recommended dosage on the label, though when in doubt, always follow your doctor's instructions. Never take more than recommended, as this can lead to serious health issues.
- Dosage can change depending on which brand you're using. Always follow the instructions on the label or your doctor's advice.
- If you are taking iron supplements as part of your recovery after childbirth, your doctor may suggest you take stool softeners until you are off of the supplements.
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4Drink six to eight glasses of water a day. This will ensure you do not get dehydrated while on the medication and that it works properly. Bring a water bottle with you if you are out and about. Make sure you have access to lots of water throughout the day.
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5Take stool softeners two hours before or after other medications. Have stool softeners before bed. In most cases, you can take iron supplements safely while taking stool softeners. Make sure you tell your doctor about any other medication you are taking before you have stool softeners, just in case.
- Do not take any other type of laxative while you are taking stool softeners, as this can lead to issues like diarrhea and upset stomach.
- Mineral oil is a laxative. Thus, you should not use it while on stool softeners. If you are already taking mineral oil, talk to your doctor. They may tell you to stop taking mineral oil and resume taking it when you are off stool softeners.
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6Have any missed doses as soon as you remember. If you do not remember you missed a dose until the following day, skip it and continue on with your regular dosing schedule.[4]
- Never take two doses at the same time, as this can lead to health issues.
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7Keep stool softeners at room temperature. The medicine should be kept in an airtight container away from heat and moisture, such as a high cabinet in your living room or bedroom. Stool softeners do not need to be kept in the fridge.
- Make sure the medication is kept away from children.
Following up with Your Doctor
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1See your doctor if you have nausea, a sore throat, or a skin rash. These are all serious side effects of stool softeners and may be a sign you are having an adverse reaction to the medication. Your doctor will examine you and determine if it is safe for you to keep taking stool softeners.[5]
- Other serious side effects include difficulty breathing or swallowing, fever, vomiting, and stomach pain. Get immediate medical assistance if you notice these symptoms.
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2Speak to your doctor if you do not see results after five days. Stool softeners are meant for short-term use, usually not longer than five days. This medication can be habit-forming and result in bowel damage if used for a prolonged period of time.
- If you do not see results within one to five days, your doctor may recommend a different course of treatment.
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3Schedule a follow up visit if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. In some cases, women who are breastfeeding may need to stop taking stool softeners or use a different course of treatment. Your doctor can outline your options for you during your appointment.
Medical Disclaimer
The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.
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