From the Guidelines
No, Colace (docusate sodium) is not a stimulant laxative. Colace is classified as a stool softener that works by increasing the amount of water the stool absorbs in the intestine, making the stool softer and easier to pass. Unlike stimulant laxatives such as bisacodyl (Dulcolax) or senna, which work by irritating the intestinal wall to increase bowel contractions, Colace has a gentler mechanism of action. It typically takes 1-3 days to work effectively. The standard adult dose is 100-300 mg daily, often divided into smaller doses. Colace is commonly used for preventing constipation rather than treating existing severe constipation, and is particularly useful for people who should avoid straining during bowel movements, such as after surgery or childbirth. Because it works differently than stimulant laxatives, Colace generally causes fewer side effects like cramping and is less likely to cause dependence with long-term use.
According to the most recent and highest quality study, the American Gastroenterological Association Institute guideline on the medical management of opioid-induced constipation 1, Colace (docusate) is a detergent/surfactant stool softener that allows water and lipids to penetrate the stool, thereby hydrating and softening the fecal material. This is in contrast to stimulant laxatives, which work by irritating sensory nerve endings to stimulate colonic motility and reduce colonic water absorption.
Some key points to consider when using Colace include:
- It is commonly used for preventing constipation rather than treating existing severe constipation
- It is particularly useful for people who should avoid straining during bowel movements, such as after surgery or childbirth
- It generally causes fewer side effects like cramping and is less likely to cause dependence with long-term use compared to stimulant laxatives
- The standard adult dose is 100-300 mg daily, often divided into smaller doses
Overall, Colace is a gentle and effective stool softener that can be used to prevent and treat constipation, particularly in individuals who should avoid straining during bowel movements.
From the FDA Drug Label
Active ingredient (in each capsule) Docusate sodium 100 mg The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Classification of Colace (Docusate)
- Colace, also known as docusate, is not classified as a stimulant laxative 2, 3
- Stimulant laxatives are a class of drugs that increase bowel movements by stimulating the muscles in the intestines 4, 5, 6
- Docusate is actually a stool softener, which works by increasing the amount of water the stool absorbs in the gut, making it softer and easier to pass 3
Comparison with Stimulant Laxatives
- Stimulant laxatives, such as bisacodyl and sodium picosulfate, have a different mechanism of action compared to docusate 4, 5, 6
- They work by directly stimulating the muscles in the intestines to increase bowel movements, whereas docusate works by softening the stool 2, 3
Clinical Use of Docusate
- Docusate is often used to treat constipation, particularly in older adults 3
- It is typically used after lifestyle modifications and other treatments, such as osmotic laxatives, have been tried 3
- Docusate is considered a relatively safe and effective treatment for constipation, with few side effects 2, 3