Stool softeners vs. laxatives: Treating constipation

Laxatives are products that help people to poop by causing bowel movements. Stool softeners are a type of laxative that works by drawing water into the stool, making it softer and more comfortable to pass.

All laxatives work in different ways, each with the intention of helping to relieve constipation. Understanding the differences between laxatives and stool softeners may help a person decide which one to use.

Anyone dealing with regular constipation may also choose to make a few changes to their diet and lifestyle, which might help regulate their bowel movements.

What are stool softeners and laxatives?

The term laxative refers to a wide range of substances, including stool softeners.

A laxative is any medicine or supplement that helps the body have a bowel movement. Each laxative works differently.

Stool softeners are a type of laxative that works to gently lubricate the stool by adding a compound to it that absorbs water. They are also called emollient laxatives.

There are many types of laxatives because there are many different causes of constipation. Doctors may recommend different types of laxative depending on the cause of constipation or side effects of the medications.

Stool softeners are a type of laxative, but not all laxatives are stool softeners. Although some other laxatives also soften the stool, they have different methods of action.

Other types of laxatives include:

• Osmotic laxatives. These laxatives draw water into the intestines from the surrounding tissues.
• Bulk-forming laxatives. Often derived from plants, these laxatives help form a watery gel in the intestines that adds both body and lubrication to the stool.
• Stimulant laxatives. Fast acting laxatives that can stimulate the intestines into having a bowel movement.
• Saline laxatives. Magnesium-based laxatives that pull water into the intestines.
• Lubricant laxatives. Oily laxatives that coat the intestines to help move stool through quicker.
• Guanylate cyclase-C agonist laxatives. Certain drugs both increase water in the gastrointestinal tract and make the stool move through the colon faster.

Only take one type of laxative at a time, and talk to a doctor before switching between them to avoid any interactions or complications.

We discuss these types of laxatives in more detail below.

People can find a wide range of constipation relief methods online, including stool softeners and other laxatives.

Stool softeners are gentle medications with a relatively mild effect. They soften the stool, making it easier to pass.

Over-the-counter stool softeners are useful when a person experiences mild occasional or chronic constipation.

Doctors may prescribe stool softeners after major surgeries, such as heart surgery or hernia repair. If straining to have a bowel movement might be harmful during recovery, people can take stool softeners to avoid complications.

Osmotic laxatives

Osmotic laxatives work by drawing water into the intestines. They may not be the best option for people experiencing constipation from dehydration.

Anyone using osmotic laxatives should also drink more water throughout the day. When used correctly, doctors may recommend osmotic laxatives for long-term use.

Fiber-based laxatives

Doctors may recommend a bulk-forming laxative containing soluble fiber if a person does not get a lot of fiber in their regular diet. Doctors may also recommend fiber-based laxatives for people who have chronic, long-lasting constipation.

Bulk-forming laxatives may be safer for long-term use than other options, as they have little risk of long-term side effects when taken correctly.

Doctors often recommend that people struggling with constipation make lifestyle changes to help ease their symptoms.

Many people can find relief from constipation by drinking plenty of water and getting regular exercise.

People can also benefit from eating more fiber. A study from 2014 reports that increasing dietary soluble fiber intake speeds up the transit time and relieves symptoms in people with slow-moving constipation.

People can increase their daily fiber intake by including more fruits and vegetables in their diet. Fiber-rich foods that can help with constipation include:

• Prunes. Prunes can help people stay regular. They contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, which may help absorb water and give body to the stool.
• Apples. Apples are rich in pectin, a helpful soluble fiber. Try including apples as a snack between meals.
• Dark, leafy greens. Vegetables, such as spinach, kale, and collard greens, can fit into many dishes and are an easy way to add fiber and nutrients to a meal.

Side effects of laxatives

All laxatives come with the risk of side effects. Some side effects are temporary, while others may be severe enough to warrant a change in medication.

Common side effects in all types of laxatives are:

• stomach cramps
• bloating or gas
• nausea or vomiting
• diarrhea

Some oral stool softeners may cause throat irritation when swallowed.

Other side effects may vary based on the active ingredient in each laxative.

Misusing laxatives, such as taking laxatives for extended periods, may cause severe and potentially dangerous symptoms.

Allergic reactions are also possible with all laxatives. Anyone who is having an allergic reaction or is unsure about their reaction should stop using the laxative and call their doctor.

Importantly, laxatives may interact with other drugs a person is taking. People with constipation who take other drugs should speak with a doctor or pharmacist before taking any laxative.

Outlook

Occasional constipation is normal. Both stool softeners and other laxatives may provide temporary relief from symptoms, and the choice between them may depend on how quickly a person needs relief.

People may experience side effects or complications from taking certain laxatives. Anyone experiencing side effects that last more than a few days should contact their doctor to find out the cause.

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