The Best Stool Softener

Buying Guide

The Mayo Clinic describes constipation as having three or fewer bowel movements or difficult to pass stools in a week. While chronic constipation should be treated by a doctor, occasional constipation can be handled at home with an over-the-counter 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.

Start off examining the ingredients used within the stool softener. You want to make sure it doesn’t go against your diet. For example, the MiraLAX Stimulant-Free Laxative Powder Stool Softener is free of preservatives, sugars and gluten. That makes it a good choice for individuals who have a gluten-intolerance or a disease like diabetes.

Determine the method of delivery that works best for you. Many stool softeners come in a softgel or pill that can be swallowed in an instant; however, some individuals have trouble swallowing pills. 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.

Check the age range of the stool softener next. 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. Some stool softeners are only listed as safe for adults.

Go with a stool softener that is gentle on your digestive system. For example, the Colace Regular Strength Stool Softener is stimulant-free and utilizes the active ingredient docusate sodium for gradual constipation relief. It reduces straining, which is often the cause of hemorrhoid flare-ups. Other brands also provide relief without the bloating, stomach discomfort or bouts of gas.

It’s also possible to choose a stool softener that is specifically formulated for a certain people group. For example, some softeners are made just for women. Others are made with an added laxative for individuals who have both trouble going and have hard stools.

• 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. It’s best to keep the stool softener out of the reach of children. If your child does get a hold of the stool softener and consume a dose above what is permitted, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.
• Always store the stool softener at room temperature. Most stool softener directions state that temperatures between 59 and 83-degrees Fahrenheit are best. They also warn against freezing the medication.
• Always consult with your doctor if you are taking any other medications, as stool softeners may interact with certain prescription drugs. 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.
• 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.
• In addition to taking the stool softener, try increasing your fiber intake through fiber-rich foods. These include broccoli, berries, squash, beans, leafy greens and mushrooms.
• 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. That’s the best way to compare prices to know which brand is offering the best deal.