Question 1

what's the diffrence between a laxative and a stool softener?

Accepted Answer

Good question: A stool softener causes bulk to the stools and pulls liquid from the walls of the colon to aid in making the stools earier to pass.  A laxative irritates or changes the physiologic function of the bowel to cause it to increase its contractions and expel stool.

Question 2

whats the difference between a stool softener and a laxative?

Accepted Answer

Stool softener: Softens stool and makes it easier to pass. Laxatives simulate the bowel to move and may be much more reactive and cause some pain.

Question 3

can i take stool softeners while i'm taking a laxative and how long should i wait to take a second dose of the laxative?

Accepted Answer

Stool softeners: Occasional constipation can be managed at home with stool softeners, such as docusate and polyethylene glycol 3350.  A stimulant laxative, such as senna or bisacodyl, can be added if the stool softener alone is not effective, but should not be taken continuously without physician supervision.  If you only have a bowel movement after taking a stimulant laxative, you should see a doctor.

Question 4

is benefiber a laxative or stool softener?

Accepted Answer

Stool Softener: Benefiber is considered a stool softener.

Question 5

is lactulose a stool softener or a laxative?

Accepted Answer

Lactulose: Lactulose is a synthetic sugar laxative used to treat constipation -- also to treat buildup of ammonia in patients with liver failure.  They can become very ill and confused --even obtunded -- when these waste products build up.

Question 6

is it safe to use a stool softener and a laxative together?

Accepted Answer

Yes but: Quite a few over the counter (otc) preps contain both elements.  As with most otc medications, temporary use to relieve symptoms are usually fine.  Habitual or prolonged use is unwise as you maybe masking something more serious.  Don't wait till it becomes a serious problem.

Question 7

which juices and foods can you use as a stool softener/laxative?

Accepted Answer

Constipation: Pure fruit juices especially prunes, pears, peaches, etc are good stool softeners. Foods rich in fiber include whole grain cereals with added bran, fruits eaten with their skin, vegetables like cooked beans, lentil, etc. And tree nuts. Increased water intake will fulfill the purpose.

Question 8

does a stool softener make me go to the bathroom like a laxative?

Accepted Answer

No: A laxative makes you go and get everything out. It can cause you to feel quite crampy or even have diarrhea.  A stool softener just makes the stool softer so it comes out easier when it does come out.

Question 9

do stool softeners like metamucil work the same way as laxatives?

Accepted Answer

Neither are laxative: Stool sofeners (colace) moisten & soften hard, dry stools whereas fiber supplements (metamucil) buks stool due to both water-holding & increased bacterial mass due to fiber digestion. Both products assume normal GI anatomy without inflammation, stenosis, extrinsic or instrinsic obstruction. Change in bowels is a "red flag", like weight loss or blood in stool, that needs evaluation if persistent.

Question 10

does long term use of stool softeners and laxatives cause vitam and mineral imbalances/ deficiencies?

Accepted Answer

The simple answer is: No...but it depends on the product, its mechanism of action, and nutritional sufficiency by the individual.

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Doctor answers about:

Do laxatives soften stool

A member asked:

What's the diffrence between a laxative and a stool softener?

A member asked:

Whats the difference between a stool softener and a laxative?

A member asked:

Can i take stool softeners while i'm taking a laxative and how long should i wait to take a second dose of the laxative?

A member asked:

Is benefiber a laxative or stool softener?

A member asked:

Is lactulose a stool softener or a laxative?

A member asked:

Is it safe to use a stool softener and a laxative together?

A member asked:

Which juices and foods can you use as a stool softener/laxative?

A member asked:

Does a stool softener make me go to the bathroom like a laxative?

A member asked:

Do stool softeners like metamucil work the same way as laxatives?

A member asked:

Does long term use of stool softeners and laxatives cause vitam and mineral imbalances/ deficiencies?

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