Colace vs. Ex-Lax for Constipation: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Docusate

(Colace)

Senna

Summary for Colace

Over-the-counter

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.

Indications for Colace

Occasional constipation

Pros and Cons for Colace

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

Common Side Effects for Colace

Stomach cramping

Summary for Ex-Lax

Over-the-counter

Senna, or also known as sennosides, is an over-the-counter (OTC) laxative medication that's used to help with occasional constipation. It can work faster than some other alternatives, like docusate (Colace), but it can also cause stomach cramps as a side effect. This medication comes as tablets and liquids that are taken by mouth once or twice a day, depending on your needs. Senna is sold under many different brand names and lower-cost generic versions.

Indications for Ex-Lax

Occasional constipation

Pros and Cons for Ex-Lax

Pros

Available over the counter, so you don't need a prescription
Safe to use in children
Works faster than stool softeners, like docusate (Colace)

Cons

Might cause stomach cramps or electrolyte changes
Not for long-term use (longer than 1 week)
Can use with other types of laxatives, if senna isn't working well on its own

Common Side Effects for Ex-Lax

Warnings for Ex-Lax

Electrolyte changes

Prices with our coupons for Colace vs. Ex-Lax

Docusate Sodium30 capsules / 100mg

$7.72$7.72

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Sennosides30 tablets / 8.6mg

$4.83$8.32

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Colace vs. Ex-Lax

Docusate

Senna

Summary for Colace

Indications for Colace

Pros and Cons for Colace

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Colace

Summary for Ex-Lax

Indications for Ex-Lax

Pros and Cons for Ex-Lax

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Ex-Lax

Warnings for Ex-Lax

Prices with our coupons for Colace vs. Ex-Lax

Browse medications by letter

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Docusate

Senna

Summary for Colace

Indications for Colace

Pros and Cons for Colace

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Colace

Summary for Ex-Lax

Indications for Ex-Lax

Pros and Cons for Ex-Lax

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Ex-Lax

Warnings for Ex-Lax