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Overview: Sorbitol is used to help with constipation. Common side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or dry mouth. Do not use sorbitol if you have nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain with your constipation. Stop using sorbitol and contact your health care provider if you have blood in your poop or if you do not poop after using it.

Uses

What is sorbitol used for?

Sorbitol is commonly used to help certain people with constipation.

Sorbitol may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

How does sorbitol work (mechanism of action)?

Sorbitol is an osmotic laxative. It pulls water into the intestines to soften poop. Softer poop is easier to pass and can help relieve constipation.

How is sorbitol supplied (dosage forms)?

Sorbitol is available in various strengths and forms, such as a liquid that is inserted into the rectum or a liquid that is swallowed.

How should I store sorbitol?

Sorbitol should be stored at room temperature, between 59 F and 86 F (15 C and 30 C). Store in a cool, dry place. Do not freeze it. If exposed to temperatures below 59 F (15 C), the liquid may thicken and look cloudy. This is not likely to affect the medicine. Before using it, you can warm it up to return it to the normal thickness and appearance. Follow the instructions on your product label or ask your pharmacist if you have questions.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of sorbitol?

The most common side effects of sorbitol are listed below. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

  • Diarrhea
  • Dry mouth
  • Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain

There may be other side effects of sorbitol that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of sorbitol?

While less common, the most serious side effects of sorbitol are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Sorbitol may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using sorbitol and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching or skin rash
  • Bumps on the skin called hives that can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use sorbitol?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use sorbitol.

  • Sorbitol
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific sorbitol products they stock.

What should I know about sorbitol before using it?

Sorbitol is available in various forms, such as a liquid that you swallow or an enema that is put in your rectum. Read and follow the instructions that come with your product. Make sure that you or a caregiver understands how to properly prepare and use sorbitol. Do not use more than is recommended. If you have any questions, talk to your pharmacist or other health care provider. 

Keep sorbitol out of the reach of children. This is especially important if the sorbitol container is not childproof. 

Do not use sorbitol if you have nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain with your constipation.

Stop using sorbitol and contact your health care provider if any of the following happen.

  • You have rectal bleeding
  • You have not pooped after using it
  • You continue to have trouble with constipation after one week of use

What should I tell my health care provider before using sorbitol?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if sorbitol is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Current and Past Health Conditions. Tell your health care provider if you have any of the following.

  • Diabetes
  • Kidney problems
  • Serious heart problems
  • Sudden change in your pooping habits lasting longer than two weeks

Other Medicines and Supplements. Sorbitol may interact with other medicines and supplements. Before using sorbitol, tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section for more details.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how sorbitol could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Your health care provider will let you know if you should use sorbitol while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if sorbitol passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your health care provider will let you know if you should use sorbitol while breastfeeding.

Interactions

Does sorbitol interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between sorbitol and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect sorbitol.

Does sorbitol interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

In particular, make sure that you discuss if you are using mineral oil, which is used to help relieve constipation.

This may not be the only medicine that can interact with sorbitol. Always check with your health care provider.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much sorbitol?

If you or someone else has used too much sorbitol, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of sorbitol?

Sorbitol is meant to be used only when needed. Use it according to the package directions or as your health care provider recommends. Do not use double or extra doses.