Colace stool softener how does it work

There were no significant between the groups in stool volume, frequency, consistency, or in perceived completeness of evacuation. In a randomized, controlled study of elderly patients on a medicine ward, 34 patients were randomized to docusate or control no laxatives J Chronic Dis. There was no difference in frequency or quality of stools between groups.

A systematic review of the usefulness of docusate in chronically ill patients concluded that the widespread use of docusate for the treatment of constipation in palliative-care patients is based on inadequate experimental evidence J Pain Symptom Manage.

Davendra Ramkumar and his colleagues published a systematic review of drug trials for the treatment of constipation in Am J Gastroenterol. Only polyethylene glycol and tegaserod received grade A evidence for published trials. Psyllium and lactulose received grade B evidence. Docusate received a level 3, grade C for evidence poor quality evidence, poor evidence to support a recommendation for or against the use of the modality.

I have been surprised at how docusate has been the most commonly prescribed laxative agent. Polyethylene glycol or psyllium are better evidence-based options. Docusate is often prescribed as a stool softener, and it has even less evidence that it softens stool than its poor evidence as a laxative. My thanks to the late Dr. David Saunders for teaching me 30 years ago that docusate was not a helpful option for the management of constipation, and to Sarah Steinkruger for doing much of the research that was used in this column.

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? Drinking hot water is a great way to stay hydrated, and it might have extra health benefits. Learn about 10 possible benefits of drinking hot water….

Coconut oil is a common home remedy for constipation. Here's a look at how it works and how to use it. Benefiber and Metamucil are fiber supplements that fight constipation. Learn how they compare. Constipation medications are available in over-the-counter and prescription versions. Find out which options might work well for you. Learn why constipation is common among people with diabetes, plus how to help reduce and relieve it.

Constipation can be uncomfortable and even painful. But there are several different at-home remedies to help you get relief. Mineral oil is one remedy…. Fiber intake depends on age, gender, and sex. Find out how much fiber you need, where to get it, and the best way to increase your daily intake. Learn what typical bowel movements should include, as well as tips to poop more….

Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Stool Softeners vs. Introduction Constipation can be extremely uncomfortable, and it can affect anyone due to many different causes. Stool softeners and laxatives. Side effects and interactions. Laxative misuse. Read this next. Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M. Can Coconut Oil Treat Constipation? Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph. Benefiber vs.

Metamucil: Which Is Better for Me? Medically reviewed by Alan Carter, Pharm. Over-the-Counter and Prescription Constipation Medications. Medically reviewed by Judith Marcin, M. National Institutes of Health. Treatment for Constipation. Accessed March Footer Warnings Do not use laxative products for longer than 1 week unless told to do so by a doctor. Do not use if you are presently taking mineral oil unless told to do so by a doctor. Ask a doctor before use if you have: Stomach pain Nausea Vomiting Noticed a sudden change in bowel habits that lasts over two weeks Stop use and ask a doctor if you have rectal bleeding or fail to have a bowel movement after use of a laxative.

These could be signs of a serious condition.