O General Information and Indications:
Stool softeners are used on a short-term
basis to relieve constipation by people who should avoid straining during
bowel movements because of heart conditions, hemorrhoids, and other
problems. They soften stools, making them easier to pass.
O Information For Users:
Stool softeners come as a capsule, tablet, liquid,
and syrup to take by mouth. A stool softener usually is taken at bedtime.
Follow the directions on the package or your prescription label carefully,
and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.
Take stool softeners exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or
take it more often than prescribed by your health care provider.
Take capsules and tablets with a full glass of water. The liquid comes with
a specially marked dropper for measuring the dose. Ask your pharmacist to
show you how to use it if you have difficulty. Mix the liquid (not the
syrup) with 4 ounces of milk, fruit juice, or formula to mask its bitter
taste.
One to three days of regular use usually are needed for this medicine to
take effect. Do not take stool softeners for more than 1 week unless your
doctor directs you to. If sudden changes in bowel habits last longer than 2
weeks or if your stools are still hard after you have taken this medicine
for 1 week, call your doctor.
O Special
precautions:
o Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have
allergy to any drugs.
o Inform your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription
medications you are taking, especially aspirin and vitamins. Do not take
mineral oil while taking stool softeners.
o Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are
breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking stool softeners, call
your doctor.
This medication usually is taken as needed. If your doctor has told you to
take stool softeners regularly, Take the missed dose at the earliest
possible moment. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the
missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double
dose to make up for a missed one.
O
Possible Adverse
Effects:
Though adverse effects of stool softeners are
not common, they could occur. Inform your doctor if any of the following
symptoms are severe or do not go away:
o stomach or intestinal cramps
o upset stomach
o throat irritation (from oral liquid)
If you have any of the following symptoms, call your doctor without delay:
o skin rash (hives (Urticaria))
o difficulty swallowing or breathing
o fever
o vomiting
o stomach pain
O Brand Name(s):
o Colace®
o Dialose®
o Docusate®
o Hemaspan®
o Modane Soft®
o Surfak®
o DOS®
o Doxinate®
o Fleet Sof-Lax® |
