From the Guidelines
Colace (docusate sodium) can be safely taken daily for short-term use to relieve occasional constipation, but long-term daily use is not recommended without medical supervision. The typical adult dosage is 50-300 mg daily, either as a single dose or divided into smaller doses 1. Colace works as a stool softener by increasing the amount of water the stool absorbs in the intestines, making bowel movements easier and less painful. It's gentler than stimulant laxatives and typically produces results within 1-3 days.
Key Considerations
- The use of docusate sodium is based on inadequate experimental evidence, and its effectiveness may vary 1.
- For chronic constipation, lifestyle changes like increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and regular physical activity are often more appropriate long-term solutions than daily medication use.
- If you need to use Colace daily for more than a week, you should consult your healthcare provider as persistent constipation may indicate an underlying condition requiring different treatment.
Alternatives and Additional Options
- Osmotic laxatives, such as polyethylene glycol (PEG) or lactulose, may be preferred for long-term use due to their stronger evidence base and lower risk of dependence 1.
- Stimulant laxatives, such as senna or bisacodyl, may be used for short-term relief, but their long-term use is not recommended due to the risk of dependence and potential harm to the intestinal muscles 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Directions Take only by mouth. Doses may be taken as a single daily dose or in divided doses. adults and children 12 years and overtake 1-3 capsules daily children 2 to under 12 years of agetake 1 capsule daily children under 2 yearsask a doctor Yes, Colace (docusate) can be taken daily.
- Adults and children 12 years and over can take 1-3 capsules daily 2.
- Children 2 to under 12 years of age can take 1 capsule daily 2.
From the Research
Colace (Docusate) Daily Use
- There is limited evidence to support the daily use of Colace (docusate) for constipation, particularly in older adults 3.
- A study comparing psyllium and docusate sodium found that psyllium was superior to docusate in treating chronic constipation, increasing stool water content and laxative efficacy 4.
- Another study found that fiber supplementation, such as psyllium, was effective in improving constipation symptoms, but did not specifically address the use of docusate 5.
- The management of chronic constipation should begin with dietary fiber supplementation and stimulant and/or osmotic laxatives, as appropriate, followed by other treatments if necessary 6.
- Docusate has been shown to be no more effective than placebo in treating constipation, and psyllium and sennosides have been found to be more effective compared to docusate 3.