While they only are intended for short-term relief of constipation, using a daily stool softener long-term probably is not harmful.
Do not take stool softeners for more than 1 week unless your doctor directs you to. If sudden changes in bowel habits last longer than 2 weeks or if your stools are still hard after you have taken this medicine for 1 week, call your doctor.
by Drugs.com
The maximum adult dose of Colace is 400mg daily - either as one dose or in divided doses.
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.
Stimulant laxatives such as senna and bisacodyl trigger contractions in the bowels that push the stool along. But if you take stimulant laxatives too often, you could become dependent on them to have a bowel movement at all—possibly because the bowel has stopped functioning normally.
But their use can lead to long-term dependency on them to keep the colon moving — or, as some have put it, an addicted colon in need of a laxative fix. Still, using a stimulant laxative two or three times a week for a fairly extended period is likely to be safe.
In general, bulk-forming laxatives, also referred to as fiber supplements, are the gentlest on your body and safest to use long term. Metamucil and Citrucel fall into this category.
To allow bulk-forming laxatives to work properly and to prevent intestinal blockage, it is necessary to drink plenty of fluids during their use. Each dose should be taken in or with a full glass (8 ounces) or more of cold water or fruit juice.
Insoluble fiber is the most beneficial for softening stools. It does not dissolve in water and helps food pass more quickly from the stomach to the intestines. Wholewheat flour, nuts, beans, and vegetables, such as cauliflower, green beans, and potatoes all contain insoluble fiber.
Once Metamucil enters the body, it forms a gel-like substance in the stomach. It then travels to your intestines and acts as a source of soluble fiber. This helps your stool to absorb and retain more water. This makes your stool larger and softer, making it easier to go.
Aerobics accelerates your breathing and ramps up your heart rate. As you get your blood flowing, the intestinal muscles are stimulated and begin to contact to help move stools out quickly. Any form of cardio is helpful with relieving constipation. Try Zumba, jogging, water aerobics, running or even just light walking.
Osmotic laxatives such as polyethylene glycol (brand name Miralax) are well-tolerated by most older adults, and can be used daily.
A laxative defines any medicine that facilitates a bowel movement which includes a broad range designed to treat varying levels of severity. A stool softener is a mild (OTC) over-the-counter laxative used to soften the stool for easier passage and less strain.
Doctors usually suggest stool softeners for people who shouldn't strain while using the bathroom, especially if you've just had surgery or given birth. Examples include docusate calcium (Surfak) and docusate sodium (Colace).
MOVICOL® has a natural mode of action that works gently, in harmony with your body. acts locally in the colon to relieve constipation: The water retained by MOVICOL® softens the stool and bulks it up slightly. As the stool gently expands, it naturally triggers colonic activity and a bowel movement.
Water, clear soups, fruit juice without added sugar, herbal teas, and other drinks can help relieve constipation. Hydration is essential for keeping the stool soft. Juices can also contain dietary fiber, sorbitol, or other nutrients that support digestive health.
“Prunes do help with constipation due to their 12 grams of insoluble fiber (in just one cup) and the natural laxative sorbitol,” says Maegan White, RDN, a diabetes educator and traveling wellness blogger.
Try yogurt with probiotics, live bacteria that's good for your digestive system. It may help relieve constipation.
Prolonged use is not recommended and may lead to dependence or serious bowel problems.
Steps in Bowel Retraining
Sit on the toilet for a fixed amount of time usually about 15 minutes. It's preferable to do this 10 to 20 minutes after a meal with coffee. If you do not have a bowel movement in that amount of time just get up and go about your regular activities. Do not strain to have a bowel movement.
Both laxative and diet pill abuse can cause liver damage. Symptoms of liver damage include jaundice, abdominal pain, skin discomfort and itching, dark-coloured urine and pale or tar- coloured stool.