How fast does dulcolax stool softener work

People with constipation who take other drugs should speak with a doctor or pharmacist before taking any laxative. 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.

Olive oil has long been used as a simple treatment for constipation. Learn more about this home remedy that gets stools moving again, and how to use…. Epsom salt is a widely available home remedy for many ailments, including constipation.

A person can use Epsom salt as a laxative by mixing it with…. Many people use magnesium citrate to relieve occasional constipation. Magnesium citrate is a laxative that works by softening the stool, which makes…. Laxatives occasionally taken for constipation can help people have bowel movements. They work in several different ways, which we explain here…. Differences between stool softeners and other laxatives. Medically reviewed by Alan Carter, Pharm. Overview Best constipation relief methods Which laxatives work fastest?

Natural stool softeners Side effects Outlook We include products we think are useful for our readers. What are stool softeners and laxatives? Share on Pinterest People should only take one type of laxative at a time. Which constipation relief method is best for me? Which laxatives work fastest?

Natural stool softeners. Share on Pinterest Prunes contain soluble and insoluble fiber. Side effects of laxatives. Exposure to air pollutants may amplify risk for depression in healthy individuals. Costs associated with obesity may account for 3. Related Coverage. Can olive oil be used to treat constipation? Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. How to use Epsom salt for constipation relief. Medically reviewed by Alan Carter, PharmD.

Considerations for use: Bulk-forming laxatives can be used for longer periods and with little risk of side effects. However, they take longer than other laxatives to work. Find a selection of bulk-forming laxatives here. Active ingredient: mineral oil. How it works: It coats your stool and intestines to prevent water loss.

It also lubricates your stool to help it move more easily. Considerations for use: Mineral oil is not for use on a regular basis. Lubricant laxatives are typically only good options for immediate relief of short-term constipation. Find a selection of lubricant laxatives here. How it works: It draws more water into your intestines. This helps soften the stool to help it move more easily. Considerations for use: Hyperosmotic laxatives can also be used for longer periods with little risk of side effects.

Find a selection of hyperosmotic laxatives here. How it works: It draws more water into the intestine. This softens the stool and stimulates movement in your intestines to help you pass it. Considerations for use: Saline laxatives should not be used on a regular basis. When used regularly, they can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Find a selection of saline laxatives here. Considerations for use: Stimulant laxatives also should not be used on a regular basis.

Find a selection of stimulant laxatives here. Emollient, bulk-forming, hyperosmotic, and saline magnesium hydroxide laxatives typically take 12 to 72 hours to work. Stimulant laxatives take six to 12 hours.

Saline magnesium citrate solution laxatives work a little more quickly, taking 30 minutes to six hours. Regardless of which type of laxative you use, rectal enemas and suppositories usually work the fastest. They usually take two to 15 minutes, but in some cases have taken up to an hour to work.

Dosages for laxatives vary, even among laxatives of the same type. Generally, laxatives are safe for people who are 12 years or older. Some products provide dosages for children who are younger than 12 years, but you should talk to your doctor before giving any laxative to a child.

Most people can use laxatives without any side effects, but some side effects are possible. The following table lists some of the milder as well as the more serious side effects of stool softeners and other laxatives. The more serious side effects are usually much less common. If you do have serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately. Regardless of the type of product used, make sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.

Stool softeners are designed for short-term use. This means that you would use them for approximately one week. If you are considering taking a stool softener for longer than one week, ask your healthcare provider to make sure that it is safe for you to do so. Stool softeners are not absorbed into the bloodstream and are typically well-tolerated. Side effects are rare. Some people may experience mild side effects such as nausea, abdominal cramps, and bloating. Throat irritation may occur as a result of using a liquid form of the medication.

If you experience any of these mild symptoms, discontinue the use of the medication. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience severe symptoms of:. People who take stool softeners on a chronic basis may find that they develop a tolerance to the medication and need to increase their dosage over time.

Taking stool softeners on a long-term basis should only be done under the advisement of your healthcare provider. Stool softeners may be safe for children or for people who are pregnant, but also should only be used with the permission of your healthcare provider or your child's pediatrician.

Stool softeners are often considered a better choice when there is a particular need for you to keep your stools soft so as to avoid straining during bowel movements.

This would include the following circumstances:. Laxatives, on the other hand, are the better choice for the treatment of constipation. If you have not had a bowel movement for several days, taking a laxative should help trigger the urge to evacuate. Laxatives are also the better choice if you deal with constipation on a chronic basis, though they too are designed for short-term use.

It can take a half day to several days for laxatives to produce a bowel movement, depending on the product and its ingredients. There are many natural remedies for constipation. Increase your fiber intake, drink plenty of fluids, and stay active. Getting into a slight squatting position with knees bent may also help move things along, as well. OTC laxative options fall into different categories. Bulk-forming laxatives bulk up stool and osmotic laxatives draw water into the colon so stool is easier to pass.

Stimulant laxatives directly increase contractions of gut muscles to produce a bowel movement. Gas pain? Stool issues? Sign up for the best tips to take care of your stomach. Updated January 29, Treatment for constipation.