Constipation
Over the counter relief options
Are you using the correct product for your constipation?
Constipation is a common digestive issue characterized by infrequent, hard, or difficult bowel movements. It occurs when stool moves too slowly through the intestines, becoming dry and hard, which makes it harder to pass. Common contributing factors include low fiber intake, dehydration, lack of physical activity, changes in diet or routine, certain medications, and even stress.
Symptoms of constipation extend beyond difficulty passing stool. Many individuals experience bloating, abdominal discomfort, straining, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation after using the bathroom. Recognizing these symptoms early is important for choosing the right relief strategies. OTC products work different ways to tackle the issue.​​
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Pharmacist-recommended products​​
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​Stool Softner (Docusate sodium)
When to use: Best if stools are hard, dry, and painful to pass. Often recommended after surgery, childbirth, or with hemorrhoids to reduce straining. Works gradually over 12–72 hours and is safe for longer-term use.
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Senna (e.g., Senokot®)
When to use: Helpful for occasional constipation when a faster result is needed. Works in 6–12 hours, often taken at night for a morning bowel movement. Not for long-term daily use without medical guidance.
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Bisacodyl (e.g., Dulcolax®) Tablets or Suppositories
When to use: Effective for short-term relief of constipation that hasn’t improved with stool softeners or fiber. Oral tablets work in 6–12 hours; suppositories act within 15–60 minutes. Avoid regular use to prevent dependence.
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Senna + Docusate (e.g., Senokot-S®, Senna-S)
When to use: Useful if stools are both infrequent and hard. Combines a stool softener with a stimulant laxative for more stubborn constipation. Works in 6–12 hours but should be used short term.
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Psyllium Fiber (e.g., Metamucil®)
When to use: Best for daily prevention and management of chronic constipation. Adds bulk and softness to stool and may also improve cholesterol levels. Requires good hydration and may take 1–3 days to work.
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Polyethylene Glycol(PEG)(e.g., MiraLAX®)
When to use: Suitable for more frequent or chronic constipation when gentle, longer-term support is needed. Works in 1–3 days and can be used safely under provider guidance.
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Milk of Magnesia
When to use: Provides faster relief (30 minutes to 6 hours) by drawing water into the intestines. Good for occasional use, but avoid if you have kidney problems unless directed by a healthcare provider.
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Fleet® Saline Enema​​​​​
When to use: Best for urgent relief when oral medications have not worked. Produces results within minutes. Not recommended for daily or frequent use.
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Use stool softeners for hard stool to pass, or if you have hemorrhoids.
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Use stimulant laxatives (Senna, Bisacodyl) short-term for lazy intestine or after using opioids or other medications that slow the intestinal movement. They come in tablets or suppositories, which are faster in action.
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Use the combination (Senna + Docusate) if you have tried Both and none of them is effective alone.
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Use Psyllium Fiber if you need to add a bulk to your stool to help the intestine pass it, could be used long-term to help regulate the intestinal movement.
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Use Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) to create a bulk stool and make it softer to pass.
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Milk of Magnesia provides faster relief, but for occasional use.
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Fleet® Saline Enema can be used for urgent relief of constipation or a constipation that is not responding to other treatments.
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