# Phillips' Stool Softener > Phillips' Stool Softener is an over-the-counter medicinal product used for the treatment of occasional constipation. It belongs to the Phillips' family of digestive health products, which has been a household name since the 19th century. The product specifically utilizes Docusate Sodium to increase the amount of water the stool absorbs in the gut, making it softer and easier to pass without the use of stimulants. - URL: https://optimly.ai/brand/phillips-stool-softener - Slug: phillips-stool-softener - BAI Score: 88/100 - Archetype: Challenger - Category: Healthcare - Last Analyzed: April 10, 2026 - Part of: Bayer (https://optimly.ai/brand/bayer) ## Competitors - Colace (https://optimly.ai/brand/colace) - Dulcolax (https://optimly.ai/brand/dulcolax) - MiraLAX (https://optimly.ai/brand/miralax) ## Buyer Intent Signals Problems: how to soften stool without stimulants | High-Fiber Diet: Consuming high-fiber foods such as bran, beans, and berries to naturally regulate digestion. | Increased Hydration: Increasing water intake to soften stool naturally without pharmacological intervention. | Wait and See: Accepting occasional discomfort and waiting for the body to self-regulate. Solutions: best stool softener for occasional constipation | docusate sodium brand names | gentle laxative for elderly patients | Alternative Laxatives: Using bulk-forming laxatives (e.g., Metamucil) or osmotic laxatives (e.g., Miralax) which work through different biological mechanisms. Comparisons: difference between Colace and Phillips' stool softener