Colace vs. Senokot: Which Is Better for Constipation Relief?
Published January 29, 2022.
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Constipation can occur for various reasons, and many people suffer from bowel issues. Many products on the market make it tough to choose the right one for you. Let's compare Colace and Senokot, two products aimed at relieving constipation.
Colace Basics
Colace is an over-the-counter medication that is used to soften stool. Colace works by increasing the amount of water absorbed by the stool in the gut, softening the stool, and making it easier to pass.
Ingredients:
- Docusate sodium
- Sennosides
- Dicalcium Phosphate
- FD&C Red #40 Aluminum Lake
- FD&C Blue #2 Aluminum Lake
- Magnesium Stearate
- Microcrystalline Cellulose
- Polyethylene Glycol
- Polyvinyl Alcohol
- Pregelatinized Starch
- Sodium Benzoate
- Talc
- Titanium Dioxide
Senokot Basics
Senokot is a natural laxative made from the leaves of a senna plant and is used to treat constipation. Senokot works by keeping water in the intestines, which results in movement of the intestines and the passing of stool.
Ingredients:
- Sennosides
- Docusate Sodium
- Dicalcium Phosphate
- D&C Yellow #10 Aluminum Lake
- FD&C Yellow #6 Aluminum Lake
- Lecithin
- Magnesium Stearate
- Microcrystalline Cellulose
- Polyethylene Glycol
- Polyvinyl Alcohol
- Pregelatinized Starch
- Sodium Benzoate
- Talc
- Titanium Dioxide
Colace Stool Softener + Stimulant Laxative vs Senokot Dual Action Natural Vegetable Laxative
Feature Comparison
This Colace and Senokot comparison is aimed at making it easier to decide which product is best for you.
Colace Stool Softener + Stimulant Laxative
Senokot Dual Action Natural Vegetable Laxative
Treats Constipation
Effective at providing relief for constipation
Cleans Intestines
Effective at cleaning out the intestines before a bowel surgery or examination
Softens Stool
Effective at making bowel movements easier and softer to pass
Prevents Straining
Relieves the pressure of straining during bowel movements
Quick Relief
Provides overnight relief for constipation
Suitability for children and pregnant women
Safe for children and pregnant women when following the correct dosage
The Effectiveness of Colace vs. Senokot
Colace
Colace is a stool softener, so it is not as effective in relieving constipation as a laxative would be. Colace can take up to three days to soften the stool for a bowel movement to take place unless you are using the suppository. Colace is considered safe to be taken long-term with the guidance of a doctor.
Colace Contraindications
Colace should not be taken in cases of:
- Hypersensitivity
- Intestinal obstruction, symptoms of appendicitis or acute abdominal pain, fecal impaction
- Concomitant use of mineral oil
- Nausea or vomiting
Senokot
Senokot encourages the muscles in the intestines to move so that a stool moves through the body. This process happens faster than with just a standard stool softener. It is recommended to take Senokot before bed, so you have a bowel movement in the morning. Senokot is not recommended for long-term use because your bowel will become dependent on the medication.
Senokot Contraindications Senokot should not be taken in cases of:
- Hypersensitivity
- Gastrointestinal obstruction or perforation
- Ulcerative colitis
- Symptoms of appendicitis or acute surgical abdomen
- Crohn's disease
- Fecal impaction
- GI or rectal bleeding
The Side Effects of Colace vs. Senokot
Colace
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Cramping
- Irritated throat (with liquid form)
- Irritated rectum (with suppository)
Senokot
- Abdominal pain
- Cramping
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Weakness
The Difference Between Colace and Senna
Stool softeners like Colace are generally safer than a laxative like Senokot because they are used less frequently and have less chance of causing dependence. However, Colace is not as effective as Senokot in relieving the symptoms of constipation. Many people find that a combination of a Colace and senna provides the best benefit.
Pricing Comparison
Colace vs. Senokot: Which Product Is Better?
Both Colace and Senokot have benefits. If you are looking for relief for hard, dry stools or occasional constipation and aren't in a hurry to have a bowel movement, then Colace will be more suited to you. If you are looking for a more natural alternative that provides overnight relief from constipation, Senokot would be the better option.
Overall, deciding which constipation relief product to choose comes down to personal preference.