What is Stool Softener: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated Jan 13, 2021  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Stool Softener overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • BENEHealth Stool Softener, Colace, Col-Rite, Diocto, Diocto Liquid, Docuprene, Docusil, Dok, DSS, Dulcolax, Dulcolax Pink, Fleet Sof-Lax, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Stool Softener, Good Sense Stool Softener, Health Mart Stool Softener

Generic Names:

  • Docusate Sodium

Uses:

  • Treats constipation by helping you have a bowel movement.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Laxative, Stimulant, Laxative, Stimulant Combination, Laxative, Stool Softener

Forms:

  • Capsule, Tablet, Liquid, Liquid Filled Capsule

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Stool Softener used for?

Docusate Sodium comes in capsule form and is used to treat constipation and reduce pain or rectal damage cause by straining during bowel movements. It works by increasing the amount of water in stool, making it softer and easier to pass. Common side effects of Docusate Sodium may include dizziness, weakness, gas, bloating and sweating.

What form(s) does Stool Softener come in

  • Capsule

  • Tablet

  • Liquid

  • Liquid Filled Capsule

What are common Stool Softener doses?

  • Capsule 100MG

  • Bottle 30 Capsules

  • Bottle 60 Capsules

  • Bottle 100 Capsules

  • Bottle 100 Tablets

  • Bottle 500 Capsules

  • Tablet 100MG

Common Stool Softener prescriptions

  • Stool Softener
    100 capsules bottle

  • Stool Softener
    250 capsules bottle

  • Stool Softener
    500 capsules bottle

  • Stool Softener
    100mg capsule

  • Stool Softener
    240mg capsule

  • Stool Softener
    250mg capsule

How to take Stool Softener

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.

  • Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water daily while using any laxative.

  • To make the oral liquid taste better, you may mix it with one-half glass of milk or fruit juice.

  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, medicine cup, or medicine dropper.

  • To make the oral liquid taste better, you may mix it with one-half glass of milk or fruit juice.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.

  • Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water daily while using any laxative.

  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, medicine cup, or medicine dropper.

What to do if you miss a dose of Stool Softener

  • Use the missed dose as soon as possible.

  • If you do not remember the missed dose until the next day, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

  • You should not use two doses at the same time.

Stool Softener contraindications

  • You should not use this medicine if you have severe stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting. Stool softeners should not be used if you have severe stomach pain and do not know the cause.

Stool Softener warnings

  • You should not use this laxative for longer than 1 week unless approved by your doctor. Laxatives may be habit-forming and can harm your bowels if you use them too long.

  • Do not give laxatives to children under 6 years old unless you talk to your doctor.

  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.

  • Stool softeners usually work in 1 to 2 days, but for some people, results can take as long as 3 to 5 days.

Stool Softener interactions

  • You should not use mineral oil while you are using a stool softener.

  • Stool softeners usually work in 1 to 2 days, but for some people, results can take as long as 3 to 5 days.

  • You should not use this laxative for longer than 1 week unless approved by your doctor. Laxatives may be habit-forming and can harm your bowels if you use them too long.

  • You should not use a stool softener within 2 hours before or after taking any other medicines. Laxatives can keep other medicines from working correctly.

Stool Softener side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Sore throat

  • Skin rash

  • Nausea

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Sore throat

  • Nausea

  • Skin rash