What is the difference between docusate and dulcolax

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.

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

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. Like osmotic laxatives, saline laxatives pull water into the stool. Saline laxatives do this using mineral salts, such as magnesium citrate or magnesium oxide.

Saline laxatives are not right for everyone. For instance, people who are on medication to lower their sodium levels or are taking other mineral-based medications, such as medicines to reduce calcium in the kidneys, should avoid saline laxatives.

Saline laxatives are useful for short-term constipation. Using them for extended periods may lead to dehydration or cause an imbalance in other minerals. Doctors may recommend laxatives containing oils, such as mineral oil for difficult short-term constipation, but they are not suitable for regular use. The oils in these laxatives may stick to fat-soluble vitamins and make them impossible to digest.

The stimulating effect in these laxatives makes the stool move faster through the colon while increasing the liquid in the stool. Many popular over-the-counter brand names contain stimulant laxatives.

Stimulant laxatives are not safe for regular use. Using them regularly may cause the body to become dependent on the laxative to have a bowel movement. Doctors may prescribe guanylate cyclase-C agonist laxatives in cases of chronic constipation that has no known cause. These laxatives, along with lifestyle changes, may offer a solution for people who suffer from chronic constipation. Docusate is not suitable for some people.

To make sure it is safe for you, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have:. Liquid — this comes with a plastic cup or spoon to measure the dose. Do not use a kitchen spoon as it will not give the right amount.

If you do not have a cup or spoon, ask your pharmacist for one. When you've swallowed it, drink plenty of water or have another drink, such as milk or orange juice. Enema — squeeze the tube of liquid gently into your anus. The information leaflet which comes with your docusate will explain how to do this. Docusate does not usually upset your stomach.

You can take the capsules or liquid with or without food. Try to take your medicine at regular intervals throughout the day. Mealtimes breakfast, lunch and dinner are useful reminders.

There is no specific time of day to use an enema but it works quickly usually between 5 and 20 minutes , so use it when you know you'll be near a toilet. Capsules — the normal dose is 1 capsule, taken 3 times a day. Do not take more than 5 capsules in a day. Liquid — the normal dose is two or three 5ml spoonfuls. Take this dose 3 times a day. Enema — normally 1 tube of liquid is all you need. If you need a second dose, you can use it later in the day or the next day.

You will usually feel more comfortable within 1 or 2 days of treatment. Reduce the dose as your condition gets better. Drink plenty of fluids 6 to 8 glasses a day while you are taking docusate or your constipation may get worse. If you forget a dose of docusate, do not worry. Just take the next dose as normal. Never take 2 doses at the same time. Never take an extra dose to make up for a forgotten one.

Taking an extra dose of docusate as a one-off is unlikely to harm you, but it is a good idea to drink lots of water. You may get diarrhoea and stomach pain, but this will usually get better within 1 or 2 days.

Like all medicines, docusate may cause side effects in some people but most people have no side effects or only minor ones. When using a docusate enema you may get a burning feeling or pain around your bottom anus. Occasionally the wall of the anus may bleed.

This is a reaction to the enema and it usually clears up quickly. If the pain or bleeding does not go away or you are worried, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. In rare cases, it's possible to have a serious allergic reaction anaphylaxis to docusate.

You could be having a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital. These are not all the side effects of docusate. For a full list see the leaflet inside your medicines packet. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, you can try to treat constipation without taking a medicine. This involves eating more fibre and drinking plenty of fluids. It may also help to do gentle exercise.

If diet and lifestyle changes do not work, your doctor or midwife may recommend a laxative, such as lactulose or Fybogel.

These laxatives are quite often used during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Docusate is occasionally used in pregnancy and there is no evidence to suggest it will harm your baby.

However, other types of laxative are usually tried first, because there is more information to say that they are safe. The amounts of docusate found in breast milk are probably very small and are unlikely to affect your baby. If you notice that your baby is not feeding as well as usual, or if you have any other concerns about your baby, talk to your health visitor, midwife or doctor as soon as possible.

For more information about how laxatives can affect you and your baby, read this leaflet about treating constipation on the Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy BUMPs website. There's very little information about taking herbal remedies and supplements with docusate. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you're taking any other medicines, including herbal medicines, vitamins or supplements. We asked doctors to investigate whether claims about the Squatty Potty are true or false.

Is there an average number of times a day you should poop, and what are some of the factors that affect frequency? Drinking hot water is a great way to stay hydrated, and it might have extra health benefits. Learn about 10 possible benefits of drinking hot water…. Coconut oil is a common home remedy for constipation. Here's a look at how it works and how to use it. Benefiber and Metamucil are fiber supplements that fight constipation. Learn how they compare.

Constipation medications are available in over-the-counter and prescription versions. Find out which options might work well for you. Learn why constipation is common among people with diabetes, plus how to help reduce and relieve it. Constipation can be uncomfortable and even painful. But there are several different at-home remedies to help you get relief. Mineral oil is one remedy….

Fiber intake depends on age, gender, and sex. Find out how much fiber you need, where to get it, and the best way to increase your daily intake. Learn what typical bowel movements should include, as well as tips to poop more….

Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Stool Softeners vs. Introduction Constipation can be extremely uncomfortable, and it can affect anyone due to many different causes.

Stool softeners and laxatives. Side effects and interactions. Laxative misuse. Read this next. Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M. Can Coconut Oil Treat Constipation? Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph. Benefiber vs. Metamucil: Which Is Better for Me? Medically reviewed by Alan Carter, Pharm. Over-the-Counter and Prescription Constipation Medications.

Medically reviewed by Judith Marcin, M.