Question 1

is genuine phillips stool softener safe to take for constipation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but: A better way to relieve constipation is to eat high fiber cereal (fiber one or all bran) everyday.

Question 2

is genuine phillips stool softener pretty good to take for constipation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but: A better way to relieve constipation is to eat high fiber cereal (fiber one or all bran) everyday.

Question 3

is benefiber a laxative or stool softener?

Accepted Answer

Stool Softener: Benefiber is considered a stool softener.

Question 4

how long till stool softener or stimulant works?

Accepted Answer

Minimize stimulants: Docusate (per pdr) helps moisten & soften hard, dry stools. It is not true laxative, but facilitates natural defecation, usually within 12 to 72 hours. This is safe & available for children over 2, & assumes 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 5

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 6

i've been constipated for two days, will a stool softener help?

Accepted Answer

Maybe,maybe not: Stool softeners generally take 3-4 days to work down into the large intestines and help with constipation.  Increasing fluid consumption and trying scheduled emptying can help move things along. A rectal stimulant like a ducolax suppository can aid immediate need.

Question 7

i tried using an enema just after a stool softener. is that bad?

Accepted Answer

Start simple, but...: First optimize fiber ; h2o intake. Next, docusate helps moisten ; soften hard, dry stools. It is not a true laxative, but facilitates natural defecation, usually within 12 to 72 hours. This is safe ; available for anyone over 2, ;assumes normal GI anatomy without inflammation, stenosis, extrinsic or instrinsic obstruction. But change in bowels is a "red flag" that needs evaluation if persists.

Question 8

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 9

is it okay to take adderall after you've taken a stool softener?

Accepted Answer

Adderall stool softe: Should be OK but check with your Dr.

Question 10

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.

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Doctor answers about:

Phillips stool softener and pregnancy

A member asked:

Is genuine phillips stool softener safe to take for constipation?

A member asked:

Is genuine phillips stool softener pretty good to take for constipation?

A member asked:

Is benefiber a laxative or stool softener?

A member asked:

How long till stool softener or stimulant works?

A member asked:

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

A member asked:

I've been constipated for two days, will a stool softener help?

A member asked:

I tried using an enema just after a stool softener. is that bad?

A member asked:

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

A member asked:

Is it okay to take adderall after you've taken a stool softener?

A member asked:

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

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