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By the way, doctor: Is it okay to take a stool softener long-term?

The risk of problems from long-term use of stool softeners such as docusate sodium (Colace, Regulax SS, other brands) really isn't the issue. The question is whether stool softeners do much good. Studies have cast doubt on the effectiveness of preparations taken expressly for stool softening. Besides, there are plenty of other ways to accomplish the same thing. The difference between a hard stool and a soft one is its water content. Increasing your fiber intake can help soften stool because fiber pulls water into the intestine. Many of us get only a small fraction of the 20 to 35 grams of fiber we're supposed to eat each day. Fruit, vegetables, and whole grains are good sources. Fiber can…

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 Stool softeners for constipation should be reconsidered, review suggests

The stool softener docusate is often a standing order for patients with constipation, such as those in the hospital or long-term care, said Dr. Janice Mann of the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies (CADTH), an independent group funded by the federal and provincial governments to assess the effectiveness of medical interventions. "We didn’t find any evidence to say that they do work," Mann said.

Articles of Interest

Don’t Rely on Stool Softeners for Constipation Relief

Stool softeners such as docusate (Colace, Surfak, generic versions) are safe. However, when put to scientific testing in controlled clinical trials, they are no better at relieving constipation than a placebo.

How Stool Softeners Help Ease the Go

Stool softeners are a type of laxative, but not all laxatives are stool softeners. Stool softeners, also called emollient laxatives, are gentler than the harsher laxatives, which work by stimulating your body and causing it to have a bowel movement. Stool softeners, on the other hand, have an ingredient called docusate sodium that pulls water from your intestines into stubborn poop so it's softer, bulkier and easier to pass. Ahhhh ... sweet relief.

Looking Beyond Fiber to Stay 'Regular'

Belonging to the stool softener class of drugs, it reduces the surface tension of the oil and water interface within the stool, facilitating the passage of water and lipids into the stool mass. The goal is for the stool to become softer and move through the intestinal tract more easily. Docusate has no indications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Natural Cure For Constipation: Stool Softener Foods That Make You Poop

Rich in fiber, they will help ease your mind and your bowels so you can enjoy the benefits of regular evacuation.

Pregnancy Constipation: Are Stool Softeners Safe?

Stool softeners are generally considered safe during pregnancy. Pregnancy constipation, defined as having fewer than three bowel movements a week, can be uncomfortable. Constipation is common in pregnancy. Stool softeners, such as docusate sodium (Colace) and docusate calcium (Surfak), moisten the stool and make it easier to pass. These products are unlikely to harm a developing baby because their active ingredient is only minimally absorbed by the body.

Should You Take a Stool Softener Or a Laxative If You Can't Poop?

Stool softeners like docusate (Colace) work by reducing the hardness of stools, which should make them easier to pass. Problem is, they won’t do much if you’re already constipated, since they take three of four days to kick in, he adds. But they can help treat chronic constipation.

Stool Softeners: How They Work and When to Use Them

Stool softeners help ease straining with bowel movements. They help add water to the stool, making them softer and easier to pass. Stool softeners are not a long-term treatment.

Things We Do for No Reason: Prescribing Docusate for Constipation in Hospitalized Adults

Despite common practice, the efficacy of docusate as a stool softener has not been borne out by rigorous scientific data. On the contrary, multiple randomized controlled trials have failed to show any significant efficacy of this drug over placebo

What are the risks associated with daily use of stool softeners (e.g. docusate)?

Daily use of stool softeners is not recommended due to the risk of dependency and electrolyte imbalances, and instead, patients should focus on increasing fiber intake, adequate hydration, and regular physical activity to manage constipation.

Resources

10 Natural Stool Softeners That Work Better Than Medicine

When it comes to easing constipation, a multi-faceted approach might be worth considering. According to many naturopathic physicians, a healthy lifestyle coupled with all-natural stool softeners can go a long way toward easing and even preventing constipation.

Colace

Colace® Capsules contain docusate sodium, which allows water and fats to get into the stool, helping to soften and make passing it more comfortable.