Stool softener
Stool softener (surfactant)
- ↓ stool surface tension → water and fat penetrate
- Does not stimulate the bowel
- Weak alone — best for preventing straining
- Limited evidence of benefit
Drugs with this mechanism (1)
- Docusate — OTC stool softener of limited efficacy.
Self-check
- Do stool softeners stimulate the bowel?
No. - How strong is the evidence of benefit?
Limited.
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