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Asked by: Marget Catarius
food and drink food movementsIs Colace a laxative or a stool softener?
Thereof, what is the difference between a laxative and a stool softener?
First of all, let's sort out the difference between stool softeners and laxatives. A laxative is a substance that you use to help you have a bowel movement. A stool softener is a type of laxative, called an emollient laxative. All laxatives are used to relieve constipation.
Subsequently, question is, is Dulcolax a laxative or a stool softener?
No. The active ingredient, docusate sodium, encourages the mixture of water and dietary fat within the hard stool, turning it softer.
Stool softeners you can buy over-the-counter are effective for most people. While they are only intended for short-term relief of constipation, using a daily stool softener long-term probably is not harmful. For many people, dietary changes can be an effective way to relieve constipation.