Pharmacist Recommended Products for Constipation
Management of constipation is based on the type of constipation, products work different ways to tackle the issue.
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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.
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​Stool Softner (Docusate sodium)
Psyllium Fiber (e.g., Metamucil®)
Polyethylene Glycol(PEG)(e.g., MiraLAX®)
Senna + Docusate (e.g., Senokot-S®)
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Want to learn more, read the product description below.
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Docusate Sodium (e.g., Colace® Stool Softener)
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.