Constipation treatments: Stool Softeners and laxatives

If you have constipation, using a laxative such as a stool softener or bowel stimulant for a short time may be helpful. Laxatives work in different ways. The four main groups are:

Stool Softener laxatives
that let water into the poo, softening it and making it easier to pass
Bulk-forming laxatives (fibre supplements)
that add bulk and absorb water to produce soft, bulky stools that are easier to pass
Stimulant laxatives
that stimulate your gut muscles and help push the stools out
Osmotic laxatives
to draw water into the intestines, softening the poo making it easier to pass

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist first before taking any constipation treatment, including stool softeners. They will be able to advise you on the best laxative to manage your constipation.

The Coloxyl treatment range: Stool Softeners and laxatives

The Coloxyl treatment range has been providing effective relief from constipation in adults in Australia for over 40 years. As the experience of constipation may differ from person to person, the range is tailored to suit different needs with a step-wise approach to constipation treatment.