Medications and Drugs

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Brand Names:

Generic Name: sorbitol (Pronunciation: SOR bi tal)

• What is sorbitol ()?
• What are the possible side effects of sorbitol ()?
• What is the most important information I should know about sorbitol ()?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking sorbitol ()?
• How should I take sorbitol ()?
• What happens if I miss a dose ()?
• What happens if I overdose ()?
• What should I avoid while taking sorbitol ()?
• What other drugs will affect sorbitol ()?
• Where can I get more information?

What is sorbitol ()?

Sorbitol is a laxative. It is used to treat constipation.

Sorbitol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of sorbitol ()?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using sorbitol and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• severe stomach cramps;
• vomiting;
• severe diarrhea;
• rectal bleeding;
• black, bloody, or tarry stools;
• weakness, dizziness; or
• frequent urge to have a bowel movement.

Less serious side effects may include:

• gas, mild nausea or stomach cramps; or
• rectal irritation.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about sorbitol ()?

A laxative may be habit forming and should be used only until your bowel habits return to normal. Never share sorbitol with another person, especially someone with a history of eating disorder. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking this medication if you have an allergy, if your bowel habits have changed suddenly in the past 2 weeks, or if you have nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain that has not been checked by a doctor.

Avoid taking other laxatives or stool softeners unless your doctor tells you to.

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