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Brand Name: Ex-Lax Stool Softener
Generic Name: Docusate
What is Ex-Lax?
Ex-Lax, or docusate, is a stool softener designed to make stools easier to pass. It is best recommended for those people who are experiencing constipation due to hard stools, people who need to avoid straining during a bowel movement. Recent recipients of abdominal surgeries, such as a hernia repair, are typically instructed to take Ex-Lax in order to reduce the risk of damage to the surgery site. It also can be used in combination with certain medications that will cause hard stool to form. Taking Ex-Lax along side of those medications will counteract that particular side effect. Never make the decision to combine medicines yourself, however, always ask your doctor first.
How To Take Ex-Lax:
Ex-Lax comes in a few different forms. As with any kind of drug, always consult with your doctor before beginning to take a new medicine. Even though Ex-Lax is an over the counter drug, that doesn’t mean that it cannot be harmful to certain people.
Ex-Lax can come in tablet or capsule form. For these forms, take the dose with a full glass of water and do not chew or crush the pills. You may also choose to take Ex-Lax in liquid or soft-chew form. Ensure that if you take a liquid form that you measure out the dose precisely. For some folks, there is an available rectal enema. This form comes specifically prepared for that purpose and you should not substitute or interchange the liquid form that is designed for oral consumption. The rectal enema comes with an already mixed solution that you have to shake up, and a specially designed bottle to administer the enema with. With each of the different forms that you can get Ex-Lax in, always follow the direction placed on the label or the advice of your physician.
What are the side effects of Ex-Lax?
A common misconception with over the counter medication is that the risks for side effects are not as high. Though this is usually true, you must still be informed as to the potential side effects of everything. The common side effects of Ex-Lax are:
- An allergic reaction involving the closing up of the throat, difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips and tongue, and hives.
- Bitter taste in the mouth
- Throat irritation
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
If any of these side effects occur consult with your doctor to find out if there is anything that can be done or if there is another treatment option. Never begin or discontinue medication with out first obtaining the recommendation of your doctor.
Warnings and precautions before taking Ex-Lax:
- Consult with a doctor if you are taking any prescription medications
- Consult with a doctor if you are taking aspirin or any medicine that contains aspirin
- Do not take mineral oil while taking Ex-Lax
- If you notice any change in health while taking Ex-Lax, tell your doctor immediately.
- Do not take if you are pregnant of will become pregnant without first consulting with your doctor
- Do not take if you are breastfeeding
- Do not take if you suffer from Crohn’s disease or other inflammatory bowel diseases.
What to do if you Overdose on Ex-Lax.
As with any overdose, always seek medical attention immediately. The symptoms of an overdose of Ex-Lax are not known but they may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and dehydration.
How to Store Ex-Lax:
Store Ex-Lax at room temperature. Medicines should always be stored out of reach of children and it is never a good idea to share your medicine with someone else.
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