Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Polyethylene glycol 3350 (Miralax) and docusate/senna (Senna-S) are both over-the-counter options for treating occasional constipation, but they work differently. Miralax is an osmotic laxative that draws water into your colon to soften stool, typically resulting in a bowel movement within 1 to 3 days. In contrast, Senna-S combines a stool softener (docusate) and a stimulant laxative (senna), which helps to both soften the stool and stimulate bowel movements, usually within 6 to 12 hours. Miralax is taken once a day, while Senna-S is often taken at bedtime to produce a morning bowel movement. Miralax is tasteless and mixed with a beverage, whereas Senna-S is taken in pill form. Both medications should only be used short-term and can cause side effects like bloating and stomach cramps. If you need to use either medication for more than a week, you should consult your healthcare provider.
Polyethylene glycol (Miralax)
Docusate/senna
Polyethylene glycol (Miralax)
Docusate/senna
Summary of Miralax vs. Senexon-s
Summary for Osmotic laxative
Polyethylene glycol (Miralax) is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication used for occasional constipation. It comes as a powder that you need to mix with a beverage and then drink. Typically, you take a dose of polyethylene glycol (Miralax) once a day, for up to a week. Most people will experience a bowl movement in 1 to 3 days. Some side effects that polyethylene glycol (Miralax) can cause include nausea, bloating, and passing gas.
Summary for Stool softener / Stimulant laxative
Docusate/senna is a combination medication containing docusate and senna. The two laxatives work together to treat constipation.
Indications of Miralax vs. Senexon-s
Indications for
•Occasional constipation and irregular bowel movements
Indications for
•Occasional constipation
Pros and Cons of Miralax vs. Senexon-s
Pros and Const for Osmotic laxative
Pros
•Available OTC, so you don't need a prescription from your provider