Colace is used to treat which condition?

Colace, which is the brand name for the active ingredient docusate sodium, is primarily used as a stool softener to alleviate constipation. It works by increasing the amount of water and fats that are incorporated into the stool, making it easier to pass. This mechanism is particularly helpful for individuals who may be experiencing difficulty due to hard stools or for those who need to avoid straining during bowel movements, such as post-operative patients or those with certain medical conditions.

The other choices relate to conditions that Colace does not address. Diarrhea requires different interventions, often involving the use of absorbents or agents that slow down gastrointestinal motility. Similarly, headaches and heartburn require treatments targeting pain relief or the reduction of stomach acid, neither of which is addressed by a stool softener like Colace. Thus, Colace's role is clearly defined as a treatment for constipation.