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Compare Colace vs. Symproic

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Docusate (Colace) and Symproic (naldemedine) are both used to treat constipation, but they work in different ways and are used for different types of constipation. Docusate is an over-the-counter stool softener that helps with occasional constipation by drawing water and fat into your stool, making it easier to pass. It comes in various forms, including capsules and liquid, and can be used by both adults and children. On the other hand, Symproic is a prescription-only medication specifically for constipation caused by opioid pain medications. It works as an opioid antagonist, blocking the constipating effects of opioids in the gut. Symproic is taken once daily and is not a laxative. Symproic can be expensive and is not suitable for people taking opioids for cancer pain or those who have been on opioids for less than a month. While docusate is generally safe for short-term use, Symproic carries risks like gastrointestinal tears and opioid withdrawal symptoms.

  • Docusate (Colace)
    Symproic (naldemedine)
  • Docusate (Colace)
    Symproic (naldemedine)

  • Summary of Colace vs. Symproic

    Summary for Stool softener

    Docusate, often known by the brand name Colace, is a stool softener that you can find over the counter (OTC). It helps relieve constipation in adults and children. You take this medication by mouth, and it comes as capsules, tablets, and a liquid. The dosage depends on the formulation you have and your age. Side effects aren't common, but some people might have stomach cramps. Even though Colace is a popular brand name, docusate is also sold under many other brand names and as a generic.

    Summary for Opioid antagonist
    Prescription only

    Symproic (naldemedine) is a prescription opioid antagonist. More specifically, it's a peripherally acting mu-opioid receptor antagonist (PAMORA) that targets opioid receptors in the gut. It's a first-choice treatment option for opioid-induced constipation in adults. It comes as a tablet that's taken by mouth once per day with or without food. Side effects include stomach pain, diarrhea, and nausea. Symproic (naldemedine) is brand name only and not available as a generic.

  • Indications of Colace vs. Symproic

    Indications for
    •Occasional constipation
    Indications for
    •Constipation from opioid pain medications in adults with long-term pain not due to cancer

  • Pros and Cons of Colace vs. Symproic

    Pros and Const for Stool softener
    Pros
    •Softens your stool so you don't have to strain
    •Available OTC at local pharmacies so you don't need a prescription
    •Okay for children of certain ages to take
    Cons
    •Can take hours to a few days to have a bowel movement
    •Should only be used short term (less than 7 days)
    •Not a first-choice treatment option for chronic constipation
    Pros and Const for Opioid antagonist
    Pros
    •Good option if over-the-counter stool softeners or laxatives don't work well
    •Taken by mouth once a day
    •Most people have bowel movement within 24 hours
    Cons
    •Tablet only; might be hard to take for people who have trouble swallowing
    •Only for adults
    •Raises your risk for opioid withdrawal

  • Common Side Effects of Colace vs. Symproic

    Common Side Effects for
    •Stomach cramping
    Common Side Effects for
    •Stomach pain (11%)
    •Diarrhea (7%)
    •Nausea (6%)

  • Warnings of Colace vs. Symproic

    Common Side Effects for
    Common Side Effects for
    •Gastrointestinal (stomach or intestinal) injury
    •Opioid withdrawal

  • Prices with our coupons for Colace vs. Symproic

    Learn more about Docusate
    Learn more about Symproic

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