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Compare Senexon-s vs. Metamucil

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

Key takeaways

Senna-S (docusate/senna) and Metamucil (psyllium) are both over-the-counter medications used to treat occasional constipation, but they work in different ways. Senna-S combines a stool softener (docusate) and a stimulant laxative (senna). Docusate draws water into your intestines to soften your stool, while senna stimulates your intestines to help push the stool out. In contrast, Metamucil is a bulk-forming fiber laxative that helps your stool absorb and hold onto water, making it bigger and softer for easier passage. Senna-S typically works within 6 to 12 hours and is often taken at night, while Metamucil can take 12 to 72 hours to relieve constipation and can be taken at any time of the day. Senna-S should be used short-term and can cause stomach cramps and loose stools, whereas Metamucil requires a lot of liquid to prevent choking and can cause bloating. Both medications are available in various forms and do not require a prescription.

  • Docusate/senna
    Psyllium (Metamucil)
  • Docusate/senna
    Psyllium (Metamucil)

  • Summary of Senexon-s vs. Metamucil

    Summary for Stool softener / Stimulant laxative

    Docusate/senna is a combination medication containing docusate and senna. The two laxatives work together to treat constipation.

    Summary for Fiber laxative

    Psyllium or psyllium husk is an over-the-counter (OTC) fiber supplement. It helps with occasional constipation in adults and children. This fiber laxative most often comes as a powder that's mixed with a beverage. But it can also come in capsules that you swallow. You take this laxative by mouth, up to 3 times a day if needed. Some side effects include gas, nausea, and bloating. Metamucil is a common brand name, but there are other brand-name and generic versions.

  • Indications of Senexon-s vs. Metamucil

    Indications for
    •Occasional constipation
    Indications for
    •Occasional constipation

  • Pros and Cons of Senexon-s vs. Metamucil

    Pros and Const for Stool softener / Stimulant laxative
    Pros
    •Contains two medications, so there's fewer pills and can sometimes be cheaper
    •Available over-the-counter so you don't need a prescription from your provider
    •Works fast to help you have a bowel movement
    Cons
    •Should only be used short-term (less than 7 days)
    •Some people have stomach cramps
    •Can cause loose, watery stools
    Pros and Const for Fiber laxative
    Pros
    •Powder can come in orange flavor with some sugar-free options
    •Also available as capsules, for people who don't like the powder or find it inconvenient
    •Available OTC so you don't need a prescription
    Cons
    •Must take with a lot of liquid so you don't choke on the medication
    •Can take 12 to 72 hours to relieve constipation
    •Can cause bloating, especially when you first start

  • Common Side Effects of Senexon-s vs. Metamucil

    Common Side Effects for

    See Risks and Warnings

    Common Side Effects for
    •Change in bowel habits
    •Bloating

  • Warnings of Senexon-s vs. Metamucil

    Common Side Effects for
    •Complete or partial blockage of intestines
    •Self-medication
    Common Side Effects for
    •Risk of choking
    •Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - flavored powders only

  • Prices with our coupons for Senexon-s vs. Metamucil

    Learn more about Docusate/senna
    Learn more about Psyllium

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