Best Stool Softeners For Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is a condition where small bulging patches develop in the digestive tract, causing inflammation or infection of the pouches that form in the intestines or colon wall. It is estimated that 50% of people who have diverticulitis also experience constipation. Constipation is a symptom of diverticulitis, and stool softeners are often recommended to help treat this. However, it is important to consult a doctor before using stool softeners or laxatives long-term.

Bulk-forming laxatives like Metamucil or Citrucel

Fibre supplements can include psyllium, methylcellulose, and polycarbophil. They have not been studied for use in diverticulitis, so they should only be used with the recommendation of a healthcare provider. After diverticulitis resolves, bulk laxatives may be helpful in not only treating constipation and/or diarrhoea but also in increasing fibre intake. However, these supplements can cause gas or bloating at first, so it’s important to add them to your diet slowly.

If you are experiencing constipation, it may be helpful to increase your fibre intake, drink more fluids, and get regular physical exercise. These steps may also help to prevent constipation. If you have severe constipation or home remedies are not effective, contact your doctor, who may prescribe fibre supplements or medications to increase bowel movements.

To prevent diverticulitis, it is recommended to modify your diet and lifestyle. Eat more fibre by adding whole-grain breads, oatmeal, bran cereals, fibrous fresh fruits, and vegetables to your diet. However, take care to add fibre gradually. A sudden switch to a high-fibre diet can cause bloating and gas.

Osmotic laxatives like MiraLAX

MiraLAX (polyethylene glycol) is a commonly recommended osmotic laxative that can be helpful in treating constipation related to diverticulitis. It works by increasing the amount of water in the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. This can be especially useful for those who have difficulty passing hard stools, which is a common issue for people with diverticulitis.

MiraLAX is typically well-tolerated and can be taken orally with water. It is important to follow the dosage instructions on the package or as directed by a healthcare professional. While it is generally safe for short-term use, it is always recommended to consult with a doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medication, including MiraLAX, to ensure it is appropriate for your individual needs.

In addition to osmotic laxatives like MiraLAX, there are other types of laxatives and stool softeners that can be used to treat constipation associated with diverticulitis. These include stimulant laxatives, such as Ex-Lax, and stool softeners, such as Colace. Bulk-forming laxatives like Metamucil or Citrucel can also be beneficial, as they help add fibre to the diet and treat constipation and diarrhoea. However, it is important to note that these supplements should be introduced slowly to avoid side effects like gas and bloating.

While managing diverticulitis, it is recommended to make dietary and lifestyle changes in addition to using stool softeners or laxatives. This includes increasing fibre intake, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and engaging in regular physical exercise. These measures can help prevent constipation and reduce the risk of diverticulitis flare-ups.

Stimulant laxatives like Ex-Lax

Stimulant laxatives are typically used in the short term or for the shortest time possible. They are not recommended for constant use as this could lead to dependency, with the bowel potentially stopping its normal functioning.

Ex-Lax is available in tablet form and should be taken exactly as directed. It is important not to take more or less than the prescribed amount. It is also advised not to take Ex-Lax at the same time as a stool softener.

Natural remedies like prunes, prune juice, and psyllium seed

Natural remedies can be effective in managing diverticulitis symptoms, but they should complement—not replace—medical treatment. Here is some information on how prunes, prune juice, and psyllium seeds can help with diverticulitis.

Prunes and Prune Juice

Prunes and prune juice are well-known natural laxatives that can help with constipation, a common issue associated with diverticulitis. They contain sorbitol, a natural sugar alcohol with a laxative effect, and dietary fibre, which adds bulk to stools, making them easier to pass. Additionally, prunes and prune juice contain antioxidants and polyphenols, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.

Psyllium Seeds

Psyllium seeds, also known as isabgol or fleawort, are another natural laxative that can be helpful for those with diverticulitis. The seeds are a good source of soluble fibre, which absorbs water in the intestines and forms a gel-like substance. This helps to soften stools and promote regularity. Psyllium seeds can be ground and mixed with water or sprinkled on food. They are also available in capsule form.

When incorporating prunes, prune juice, or psyllium seeds into your diet to help manage diverticulitis, it is important to do so gradually, as a sudden increase in fibre intake can lead to bloating and cramps. Additionally, it is crucial to drink plenty of water to prevent constipation.

Prescription drugs like lubiproston (Amitiza)

Lubiprostone, also known by its brand name Amitiza, is a prescription medication used to treat chronic constipation. It is a prostaglandin derivative that works by activating specific chloride channels (ClC-2) in the small intestine, increasing intestinal fluid secretion and accelerating small intestine and colonic transit time. This activation of ClC-2 channels causes an efflux of chloride into the lumen of the gastrointestinal tract, followed by an efflux of sodium ions and water, which adds fluid to the stool and promotes increased transit. Lubiprostone is a locally acting drug with a rapid onset of action and low systemic bioavailability. It is generally well-tolerated and has been shown to be effective in treating constipation, with an increase in the frequency of spontaneous bowel movements and improvements in stool consistency and abdominal symptoms.

The recommended dosage of lubiprostone is 24 mcg taken orally twice daily with food. It is important to note that lubiprostone should not be cut, crushed, or chewed, and the capsules should be swallowed whole. The medication can be taken long-term if needed, and there are no restrictions on the length of use. However, it should not be given to patients with severe diarrhea or a history of mechanical gastrointestinal obstruction. Lubiprostone has also not been studied in patients with renal or hepatic impairment, so caution is advised in these populations.

Common side effects of lubiprostone include nausea, diarrhea, and headache. Nausea was reported in approximately 31% of patients taking the recommended dosage, compared to 5% in the placebo group. Diarrhea occurred in about 13% of patients, compared to 1% in the placebo group. Other less common side effects include abdominal distension/pain, gas, vomiting, loose stools, dizziness, peripheral edema, dyspnea, and arthralgia. It is important to consult a doctor if any of these side effects occur and persist or become bothersome.

Lubiprostone is generally safe, but it has been associated with an increased rate of fetal loss in animal studies when given at higher doses. Therefore, it is classified as pregnancy category C, and it is recommended to check for pregnancy before initiating treatment in women of childbearing age. Additionally, lubiprostone has not been studied in pregnant women, so it is advised to use it during pregnancy only if the benefits outweigh the potential risks. It is also not recommended for use in breastfeeding women due to a lack of data.

Lubiprostone is a prescription medication that has been shown to be effective in treating chronic constipation and improving stool consistency and abdominal symptoms. It is generally well-tolerated but may cause side effects such as nausea and diarrhea. It is important to consult a doctor before taking this medication to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.

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