From the Guidelines
Colace (docusate sodium) works as a stool softener by allowing water and lipids to penetrate the stool, thereby hydrating and softening the fecal material, as stated in the american gastroenterological association institute guideline on the medical management of opioid-induced constipation 1.
Mechanism of Action
The mechanism of action of Colace is based on its surfactant properties, which lower the surface tension of the stool, making it easier to pass. This is in contrast to stimulant laxatives, which work by irritating luminal sensory nerve endings, thereby stimulating colonic motility and reducing colonic water absorption.
Dosage and Administration
The standard adult dose of Colace is 50-300 mg daily, often divided into smaller doses, with 100 mg taken once or twice daily being common, as mentioned in the guideline on adult cancer pain 1.
Clinical Use
Colace is particularly useful for people who need to avoid straining during bowel movements, such as after surgery, childbirth, or for those with certain medical conditions. It is also recommended as a prophylactic medication to prevent constipation in patients taking opioids, as stated in the palliative care version 1.2016 guideline 1.
Important Considerations
It is essential to drink plenty of water when taking Colace to help it work effectively. If constipation persists after several days of use, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider, as this could indicate a more serious condition requiring different treatment. The american gastroenterological association institute guideline on the medical management of opioid-induced constipation 1 provides a comprehensive approach to managing constipation, including the use of laxatives, such as Colace, as first-line agents.
From the FDA Drug Label
Uses relieves occasional constipation (irregularity) generally produces bowel movement in 12 to 72 hours The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
How Colace Works
- Colace, also known as docusate, is a stool softener that works by increasing the amount of water the stool absorbs in the gut, making it softer and easier to pass 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- It is commonly used to treat constipation, which is a common disorder among various patient populations, including those in long-term care settings 4.
- The efficacy of docusate in preventing or treating constipation has been studied in various clinical trials, with some showing its effectiveness in increasing stool frequency and softening stool consistency 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, other studies have found that docusate may not be effective in certain patient populations, such as those undergoing rotator cuff repair, and that its use may not significantly differ from placebo in preventing postoperative constipation 5.
Mechanism of Action
- Docusate works by reducing the surface tension of the stool, allowing it to absorb more water and become softer and more easily passed 2, 3, 4.
- It may also increase the amount of water in the intestine, which can help to soften and bulk up the stool, making it easier to pass 2, 3, 4.
- The combination of docusate with other laxatives, such as senna, may be more effective than using docusate alone in treating constipation 6.
Clinical Evidence
- A systematic review of randomized controlled trials found that docusate was effective in increasing stool frequency and softening stool consistency in patients with chronic constipation 2, 3, 4.
- Another study found that the combination of docusate and senna was effective in reducing the time to first bowel movement after pelvic reconstructive surgery 6.
- However, a randomized controlled trial found that docusate was not effective in preventing postoperative constipation after rotator cuff repair 5.