What is Stool Softener: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.

Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water daily while using any laxative.

To make the oral liquid taste better, you may mix it with one-half glass of milk or fruit juice.

Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, medicine cup, or medicine dropper.

To make the oral liquid taste better, you may mix it with one-half glass of milk or fruit juice.

Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.

Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water daily while using any laxative.

Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, medicine cup, or medicine dropper.

Use the missed dose as soon as possible.

If you do not remember the missed dose until the next day, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

You should not use two doses at the same time.

You should not use this medicine if you have severe stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting. Stool softeners should not be used if you have severe stomach pain and do not know the cause.

You should not use this laxative for longer than 1 week unless approved by your doctor. Laxatives may be habit-forming and can harm your bowels if you use them too long.

Do not give laxatives to children under 6 years old unless you talk to your doctor.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.

Stool softeners usually work in 1 to 2 days, but for some people, results can take as long as 3 to 5 days.

You should not use mineral oil while you are using a stool softener.

Stool softeners usually work in 1 to 2 days, but for some people, results can take as long as 3 to 5 days.

You should not use this laxative for longer than 1 week unless approved by your doctor. Laxatives may be habit-forming and can harm your bowels if you use them too long.

You should not use a stool softener within 2 hours before or after taking any other medicines. Laxatives can keep other medicines from working correctly.