Side Effects of stool softeners: A Synthesis of Findings from 15 Studies

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This information is not medical advice and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician.Data sources and disclaimers (data limitations, copyright, etc.)The analysis on "Side Effects of stool softeners: A Synthesis of Findings from 15 Studies" on this page is based on PubMed data provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM). However, NLM does not endorse or verify these analyses.

This analysis is based on research papers included in PubMed, but medical research is constantly evolving and may not fully reflect the latest findings. There may also be biases towards certain research areas.

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This page's analysis is based on PubMed data provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM).
Original Abstract of the Article

Main Research Findings

These studies provide important information about the use of stool softeners and their potential side effects. They indicate that stool softeners can be effective in treating constipation, but it is important to recognize that they are not suitable for all patients and there are risks of side effects.

Reasons for Side Effects

The side effects of stool softeners can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of drug, the dosage, and the patient's health status. Stool softeners work by adjusting bowel function or by adjusting the moisture content of the stool, promoting bowel movements. However, if these actions are excessive, they can lead to side effects.

Common Side Effects

Constipation

While stool softeners are used to treat constipation, 4 , 9 , 11 , 7 have pointed out that long-term use may worsen constipation. This is because stool softeners can weaken intestinal muscles, potentially hindering natural bowel movements.

Diarrhea

Stool softeners can also cause diarrhea. 7 This is because stool softeners absorb excess moisture from the intestines, making the stool too soft.

Abdominal Pain

Stool softeners can cause abdominal pain. 7 This is because stool softeners can stimulate intestinal muscle contractions, leading to abdominal pain.

Dehydration

Stool softeners can cause dehydration. 15 This is because stool softeners absorb excess moisture from the intestines, resulting in insufficient water in the body.

Electrolyte Imbalance

Stool softeners can cause electrolyte imbalances. 15 This is because stool softeners can absorb electrolytes from the intestines, disrupting the body's electrolyte balance.

Allergic Reactions

Stool softeners can cause allergic reactions. 11 This occurs when a person is allergic to an ingredient in the stool softener.

Side Effect Countermeasures

Constipation

To prevent constipation caused by stool softeners, it is important to drink plenty of fluids and eat a diet rich in fiber. 15 Exercise can also help prevent constipation.

Diarrhea

To prevent diarrhea caused by stool softeners, it may be necessary to reduce the amount of stool softener used or stop using them altogether. 7 Drinking plenty of fluids and taking antidiarrheal medications can also be effective.

Abdominal Pain

To prevent abdominal pain caused by stool softeners, it may be necessary to reduce the amount of stool softener used or stop using them altogether. 7 Using a warm compress can also be effective.

Dehydration

To prevent dehydration caused by stool softeners, it is important to drink plenty of fluids. 15 If you experience symptoms of dehydration, consult a doctor.

Electrolyte Imbalance

To prevent electrolyte imbalances caused by stool softeners, it is important to take stool softeners as directed by your doctor. 15 If you experience symptoms of electrolyte imbalance, consult a doctor.

Allergic Reactions

If you have an allergic reaction to a stool softener, consult a doctor immediately. 11

Comparison Between Studies

Commonalities

All studies have shown that stool softeners are effective in treating constipation. All studies also showed that stool softeners can cause side effects.

Differences

Each study used different types of stool softeners and different patient populations were studied. Therefore, the results of each study are not always consistent.

Cautions for Real-Life Applications

It is important to follow your doctor's instructions when using stool softeners. Stool softeners are not suitable for all patients. Also, prolonged use of stool softeners can weaken bowel function. Therefore, if you are using stool softeners for an extended period of time, consult your doctor regularly.

Limitations of Current Research

These studies do not cover all aspects of stool softener side effects. Also, the research findings may not be applicable to all patients.

Future Research Directions

Further research is needed on the side effects of stool softeners. In particular, research is needed on the effects of long-term use of stool softeners and the safety of stool softeners for specific patient populations.

Conclusion

Stool softeners are effective medications for treating constipation, but they carry a risk of side effects. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions when using stool softeners. Also, if you experience side effects from stool softeners, consult a doctor immediately.

Literature analysis of 15 papers
Positive Content
11
Neutral Content
0
Negative Content
4
Article Type
4
0
0
4
14
1.

Pilot study evaluating preference for 3-mg versus 6-mg subcutaneous sumatriptan.

Author: LandyStephen H, McGinnisJudy E, McDonaldSusan A

Improved migraine tolerability
Reduced migraine frequency
Reduced migraine pain
Side effects

A lower dose of subcutaneous sumatriptan (3 mg) was preferred by 80% of patients compared to the standard dose (6 mg) for treatment of migraine attacks.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

4.

Opioid-induced constipation in chronic noncancer pain.

Author: WeberH Christian

OIC treatment

This review examines new medications for treating opioid-induced constipation (OIC), a common side effect of opioid use.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

5.

The effect of topical nifedipine in treatment of chronic anal fissure.

Author: GolfamFarzaneh, GolfamParisa, KhalajAlireza, Sayed MortazSayed Saaid

Anal fissure healing
Low complication rate
Pain relief
Anal fissure recurrence
Mild headache

Chronic anal fissure is commonly treated with anal dilatation or sphincterotomy, which can cause incontinence. This study investigated the effectiveness of nifedipine cream, a calcium channel blocker, in healing anal fissures. The nifedipine group showed significantly higher healing rates compared to the control group. However, recurrence rates were significant despite controlling predisposing factors.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

6.

Methylnaltrexone: the evidence for its use in the management of opioid-induced constipation.

Author: DeibertPeter, XanderCarola, BlumHubert E, BeckerGerhild

Opioid-induced constipation treatment

Constipation is a common side effect of opioid treatment. New drugs are needed to prevent or treat constipation without compromising the efficacy of opioid analgesics.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

7.

Treatment of chronic constipation: current pharmacologic approaches and future directions.

Author: TackJan, Müller-LissnerStefan

Constipation treatment

New enterokinetic agents may offer an alternative for patients with chronic constipation who do not respond to traditional laxatives.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

8.

Management of common opioid-induced adverse effects.

Author: SwegleJohn M, LogemannCraig

Pain management
Cognitive changes
Constipation
Nausea
Opioid side effects
Pruritus
Sedation

This paper discusses the management of adverse effects of opioid analgesics. Strategies include dose reduction, symptomatic treatment, and the use of antiemetics, laxatives, and antihistamines.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

9.

Managing a patient's constipation with physical therapy.

Author: HarringtonKendra L, HaskvitzEsther M

Constipation treatment

This case report describes the use of abdominal massage in physical therapist management for a patient with constipation.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

10.

Topical 0.5% nifedipine vs. lateral internal sphincterotomy for the treatment of chronic anal fissure: long-term follow-up.

Author: KatsinelosPanagiotis, PapaziogasBasilios, KoutelidakisIoannis, ParoutoglouGeorge, DimiropoulosStavros, SouparisAnastasios, AtmatzidisKonstantinos

Easier to handle
Effective anal fissure treatment
Side effects

Topical 0.5% nifedipine ointment was as effective as lateral internal sphincterotomy for healing chronic anal fissures, with a lower rate of side effects.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

11.

Irritable bowel syndrome medications side effects survey.

Author: LemboAnthony

Discontinuation of treatment
Missed work
Side effects

Traditional therapies for irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C), including laxatives, fiber, and stool softeners, are associated with side effects that negatively affect the lives of IBS sufferers.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

12.

Oral lacidipine in the treatment of anal fissure.

Author: AnsaloniL, BernabèA, GhettiR, RiccardiR, TranchinoR M, GardiniG

Anal fissure healing
Pain relief
Dyplopia
Side effects

Lacidipine, a calcium channel blocker, showed promising results in healing anal fissures, with a high healing rate and a good tolerability profile.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

13.

Management of opioid-induced gastrointestinal effects in patients receiving palliative care.

Author: HerndonChristopher M, JacksonKenneth C, HallinPamala A

Opioid-induced gastrointestinal side effect treatment

Opioid-induced gastrointestinal side effects, namely, nausea and constipation, are bothersome yet often easy to manage. Common agents administered for nausea are butyrophenones, phenothiazines, metoclopramide, and serotonin-receptor antagonists. Those given to manage constipation are stimulant laxatives and stool softeners, individually or in combination.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

14.

Internal sphincterotomy is superior to topical nitroglycerin in the treatment of chronic anal fissure: results of a randomized, controlled trial by the Canadian Colorectal Surgical Trials Group.

Author: RichardC S, GregoireR, PlewesE A, SilvermanR, BurulC, BuieD, ReznickR, RossT, BurnsteinM, O'ConnorB I, MukrajD, McLeodR S

Effective fissure treatment
Side effects

Internal sphincterotomy is superior to topical nitroglycerin for the treatment of chronic anal fissure. The healing rate was higher, side effects were fewer, and the risk of early incontinence was lower with internal sphincterotomy.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

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