What is Sorbitol?
It is used as a laxative. It is used for constipation. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of sorbitol.
Side effects of Sorbitol
Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include hives, difficulty breathing and swelling of lips, face, tongue or throat. Seek medical assistance immediately if these occur.
If you experience a serious adverse reaction, such as:
- Severe stomach cramps;
- Vomiting;
- Severe diarrhea;
- Rectal bleeding
- Black, bloody, or tarry stools
- Weakness, dizziness,
- Urge to urinate frequently.
Some of the less serious side effects include:
- Gas, mild nausea, or stomach cramps
- Rectal irritation.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Warnings
Laxatives can become habit-forming, so you should only use them until your bowel movements return to normal. Do not share sorbitol, especially with someone who has a history of eating disorders.
Before taking this medication, consult a physician or pharmacist if any of the following applies: You have an allergic reaction; your bowel habit has changed in the last 2 weeks; or you are experiencing nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain. Do not take other laxatives or stool softeners unless you are told to by your doctor.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to sorbitol, it is best not to use it. Laxatives can become habit-forming, so you should only use them until your bowel movements return to normal. Do not share sorbitol, especially with someone who has a history of eating disorders.
If you suffer from:
- Any allergy
- If you have stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting that hasn't been checked out by a physician, then it is time to consult a doctor.
- If your bowel habits suddenly changed in the last 2 weeks,
The safety of sorbitol for an unborn child is unknown. If you are pregnant, do not take this medication without consulting your doctor.
There is no way to know if sorbitol can pass into breast milk or if it will harm a baby who is nursing. You should not take this medication if you are breastfeeding a child. The effects of this medication may be more pronounced in older adults. Do not give this medicine without first consulting with a doctor.
How to take Sorbitol?
Do not exceed the recommended dosage or duration. Use only the recommended dose. Do not exceed it. Usually, you will only take Sorbitol for a few days until your symptoms have cleared up. Use this medication only for a maximum of 1 week, unless your doctor has prescribed it. Store away from moisture, heat, and light at room temperature.
Sorbitol dosing information
Adult dose for constipation:
Take 30 to 150 ml (70% solution) once.
Rectal: 120 ml of solution (25%–30%) as an enema.
Usual pediatric dose for constipation:
From 2 to 11 years:
Oral: 2 ml/kg (70% solution) once.
Rectal: 30–60 ml of solution (25%–30%) as an enema.
More than or equal to 12 years old:
Take 30 to 150 ml (70% solution) once.
Rectal: 120 ml of solution (25%–30%) as an enema.
What happens if I miss the dose?
As soon as you become aware, take the missed dose immediately; if your next scheduled dosage is fast approaching, skip it instead. You should not take more medicine to compensate for a missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention. Diarrhea and stomach cramps are common symptoms of an overdose.
What should be avoided?
Do not take other laxatives or stool softeners unless you are told to by your doctor.
Interaction with other drug
Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications, including laxatives or stool softeners. Other drugs can interact with sorbitol. Inform your doctor of all the medications you take. Included are prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Never start a new medicine without consulting your doctor.
