Osmotic laxatives, including magnesium citrate and magnesium hydroxide, may produce a bowel movement in 30 minutes to 6 hours. Others may not take effect for 24 to 48 hours. Stimulant laxatives, such as Dulcolax and Senna, may take 6 to 12 hours. Stool softeners, such as Docusate, may take 24 to 48 hours.

What is the fastest acting stool softener?

Stool softeners such as Colace and Surfak. Lubricant laxatives such as mineral oil (liquid petrolatum) Stimulant laxatives are the fastest-acting, such as include aloe, cascara (Nature's Remedy), senna compounds (Ex-Lax, Senokot), bisacodyl (Dulcolax, Correctol), and castor oil.

What softens stool immediately?

Insoluble fiber is the most beneficial for softening stools. It does not dissolve in water and helps food pass more quickly from the stomach to the intestines. Wholewheat flour, nuts, beans, and vegetables, such as cauliflower, green beans, and potatoes all contain insoluble fiber.