People who misuse stimulant laxatives may get to the point where they cannot have regular bowel movements without them, and the colon can even become damaged.

Dependence: Stimulant laxatives like bisacodyl and senna can lead to dependence if you take too many or use them for a long time.

Staying hydrated will help keep the substances from possibly causing a blockage in your intestines (bowel obstruction).

Bowel blockage: Drinking enough water is also really important if you’re taking a bulk-forming laxative.

The same can be true for laxatives (like saline enemas) that have sodium phosphate in them. If you’re using a magnesium-based laxative and too much magnesium builds up in your system, it can be hard on your kidneys. Osmotic and bulk-forming laxatives also may not work as well if you’re not hydrated.

Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances: You can get dehydrated if you’re not drinking enough water when you’re using a laxative, which can throw off your electrolytes and cause serious symptoms.

There are some risks that come with using OTC laxatives, including: That means not taking a higher dose or using them for longer than directed (unless your provider tells you to). That’s the best way to compare prices to know which brand is offering the best deal.OTC laxatives and stool softeners are safe for most people as long as they’re used according to the instructions.

As you examine the price of the available stool softeners on the market, you want to look at how much you’re paying per serving.

These include broccoli, berries, squash, beans, leafy greens and mushrooms.

In addition to taking the stool softener, try increasing your fiber intake through fiber-rich foods.

If you begin to experience rectal bleeding after taking the stool softener, or you don’t produce a bowel movement, contact your doctor right away to determine if there is a more serious cause for your constipation.

You’ll also want to speak with your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing, have kidney disease, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting or follow a magnesium-restricted diet.

Always consult with your doctor if you are taking any other medications, as stool softeners may interact with certain prescription drugs.

They also warn against freezing the medication.

Most stool softener directions state that temperatures between 59 and 83-degrees Fahrenheit are best. Always store the stool softener at room temperature.If your child does get a hold of the stool softener and consume a dose above what is permitted, call Poison Control at 1-80. It’s best to keep the stool softener out of the reach of children. Even though some of the stool softeners are safe for children ages 2 and up, they can be harmful if taken in a dose above the recommended amount.Others are made with an added laxative for individuals who have both trouble going and have hard stools. For example, some softeners are made just for women. It’s also possible to choose a stool softener that is specifically formulated for a certain people group. Other brands also provide relief without the bloating, stomach discomfort or bouts of gas. It reduces straining, which is often the cause of hemorrhoid flare-ups. For example, the Colace Regular Strength Stool Softener is stimulant-free and utilizes the active ingredient docusate sodium for gradual constipation relief. Go with a stool softener that is gentle on your digestive system. Some stool softeners are only listed as safe for adults. If you want to keep a bottle in your medicine cabinet that is able to treat the entire family, go with a softener that is safe for children ages 2 and up.

In that case, you’ll want to go with a liquid or a powder that can be dissolved in a glass of water or hot tea.Ĭheck the age range of the stool softener next. Many stool softeners come in a softgel or pill that can be swallowed in an instant however, some individuals have trouble swallowing pills. That makes it a good choice for individuals who have a gluten-intolerance or a disease like diabetes.ĭetermine the method of delivery that works best for you. For example, the MiraLAX Stimulant-Free Laxative Powder Stool Softener is free of preservatives, sugars and gluten. You want to make sure it doesn’t go against your diet. Start off examining the ingredients used within the stool softener. There are several different stool softeners on the market, so you’ll want to take a look at this guide in order to choose the one that will work best for you. While chronic constipation should be treated by a doctor, occasional constipation can be handled at home with an over-the-counter stool softener. The Mayo Clinic describes constipation as having three or fewer bowel movements or difficult to pass stools in a week.

Phillips stool softener