Stool softeners are a type of laxative. They work by drawing water into the stool, making it softer and more comfortable to pass. Learn more.

All laxatives, including stool softeners are used to relieve constipation. Some may be a better choice for you than others, depending on how long you need to use them and how harsh the ingredients ...

Dear Dr. Roach: I’m an 84-year-old man who has recently found relief from lifelong strain in bowel movements by using stool softeners. I would like to know if they’re habit-forming if taken ...

While psyllium husk is well-known as a natural stool softener, you can also find relief using other kitchen ingredients such as castor oil, olive oil, aloe vera, flaxseeds, and chia seeds.

I have been taking one stool softener daily (100 mg of docusate sodium) with my vitamins. This routine seems to help. Is it safe to do this every day, or should I reduce this to a few days a week?

Lactulose is used to treat chronic constipation, piles as a stool softener, liver failure affecting the brain or hepatic encephalopathy, opioid-induced constipation, and hyperammonemia.