Dulcolax (bisacodyl) and Colace (docusate sodium) are over-the-counter (OTC) medications used to treatconstipation.
While both are helpful for relieving symptoms, these medications differ in how they work in the body.
Dulcolax is astimulant laxative.
Getty Images /Jeff Greenberg/ Contributor
It triggers the body to push stool out of the intestines.Colace works as astool softener.
It softens the hardened stool in the intestines by increasing the water content.
This makes it easier to pass the stools.
Getty Images /Jeff Greenberg/ Contributor
Dulcolax vs. Colace: Key Differences and Similarities
Dulcolax is a stimulantlaxative.
It stimulates the intestines, causing the stool to move out of the intestines.Colace is a stool softener.
Dulcolax and Colace can also be used foropioid-induced constipation (OIC).
Opioids can cause the bowels to become too relaxed, preventing them from being able to push out stool.
Dulcolax comes in tablet and suppository forms.
The tablets are taken by mouth, whereas the suppository is inserted rectally.
Colace comes in capsule and liquid formulations.
It is also available as a rectalenemain its generic form, docusate.
How Long Do They Take to Work?
Dulcolax takes six to 12 hours before producing a bowel movement.
It shouldn’t be used for over a week without talking to your healthcare provider.
Continued use of Dulcolax can cause you to struggle to have bowel movements when you stop taking it.
Colace, on the other hand, may take 12 to 72 hours before producing a bowel movement.
You should take it regularly for one to three days to get the full therapeutic effects of the medication.
Therefore, it does not provide quick relief from constipation symptoms.
Talk to your healthcare provider if you have concerning reactions to using them.
Common side effects with Dulcolax can include:
Severe side effects with Dulcolax may include rectal bleeding.
Constipation is acommon symptom of pregnancy.
Oftentimes, OTC medications are needed for relief.
Dulcolax and Colace will not cross the placenta to affect the fetus if used during pregnancy.
Therefore, they are generally considered safe to use while pregnant.
It’s typically recommended to use other products before Dulcolax in pregnancy.
Drug Interactions
Don’t take Dulcolax within one hour of drinking milk or taking heartburn medications.
This can cause the outer coating of the pills to dissolve too soon, reducing its effectiveness.
Dulcolax vs. Colace: Which One Should I Choose?
Both medications are effective in relieving constipation.
On the other hand, if you need a longer-term solution, Colace may be a better option.
How Does Dulcolax and Colace Compare to Miralax?
Summary
Both Dulcolax and Colace are formulated to help reduce symptoms of constipation.
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