Compare Colace vs. senna
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.
Softens your stools.
Colace (docusate) softens the stool, but may not stimulate a bowel movement as quickly as a laxative.
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3.6/ 5 average rating with 125 reviewsforColace
Relieves occasional constipation.
Senokot (senna) is gentle and effective for occasional constipation, but it can't be used as a long-term treatment.
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3.4/ 5 average rating with 69 reviewsforsenna
Upsides
- Safer than laxatives.
- Available over-the-counter.
- Safe to use in children as young as 2 years old.
- Senokot (senna) is tolerated well and has few side effects.
- Approved for children as young as 2 years old.
Downsides
- May take up to 5 days for the full effects to kick in.
- Intended to be used only as a short-term solution for occasional constipation. Other options such as fiber supplements may be more useful for maintaining regular bowel movements.
- Using Senokot (senna) often or for a long period of time can increase the risk of dehydration, especially if you are older or also taking diuretics.
- Might take a few days to work which is slower than some of its alternatives.
- Can only be used as a short-term treatment.
Used for
Dosage forms
- Pill
- Enema
- Liquid
- Pill
- Chewable tablet
- Liquid
Price
Lowest price
$3.70
Find instant savings near youLowest price
$7.88
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Reviews
125 reviews so far
66%
saidit'sworth it
49%
saiditworked well
13%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Colace (docusate)?
Leave a review69 reviews so far
58%
saidit'sworth it
35%
saiditworked well
10%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Senokot (senna)?
Leave a reviewSide effects
The Colace (docusate) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
The Senokot (senna) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
Risks and risk factors
- Complete or partial blockage of intestines
- Bowel blockage
- Laxative dependence