Constipation is the third most common digestive disorder in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC. The discomfort associated with constipation can cause some people to turn to laxatives to help aid in stimulating bowel movements. Senokot, a stimulant laxative, and Docusate Calcium, a stool softener product, can be used together to help relieve constipation.
Senokot Use
Senokot is a stimulant laxative, which works by increasing action in the intestines. According to its makers, Senokot is made from natural products for people experiencing difficulty in producing consistent bowel movements. The onset time for the product to work is 6 to 12 hours. Because Senokot draws water to the intestines to increase bowel motility, it is necessary to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. In comparison, other laxatives include natural or synthetic bulk-forming laxatives. These work by reacting with the intestinal walls to cause a bowel movement.
Docusate Calcium Use
Docusate Calcium works as a stool softener by breaking up the components of the stool, making it easier to pass through the intestines. Docusate Calcium and Docusate Sodium are used interchangeably as stool softeners because they both produce the same reaction. The use of stool softeners is intended for those who cannot strain during bowel movements and for those who are experiencing dry and hard stools. Stool Softeners can be taken orally, in which case the onset time ranges from 12 to 72 hours. They also can be taken through an enema, in which the onset is 2 to 15 minutes.
Senokot and Docusate Calcium Combination
Currently, no contraindications exist for taking Senokot and Docusate Calcium together, according to the makers of Senokot. In fact, Senokot makes a product that combines Senokot and Docusate Sodium in one pill, Senokot-S, which Senokot says is useful in constipation relief.
Senna, the main ingredient in Senokot, might cause an adverse reaction if taken with other herbal laxatives. According to MedlinePlus, a project of the United States Department of Agriculture, Senna used with other herbal laxatives might lead to decreased potassium levels in the body. These herbal laxatives include: aloe, alder buckthorn, black root, blue flag, butternut bark, colocynth, European buckthorn, fo ti, gamboge, gossypol, greater bindweed, jalap, manna, Mexican scammony root, rhubarb and yellow dock.
Warnings of Laxative Use
Just like any other medication, the use of laxatives should be reviewed by a doctor. If diarrhea, discolored urine, vomiting, bloody stools or severe cramping occurs, it is necessary to contact a physician immediately, says the makers of Senokot.
According to the American Dietetic Association, prolonged laxative use can lead to dependency by both the user and the body. The use of laxatives should be monitored closely, and taken for no longer than 7 to 14 days. A high fiber diet that includes whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help alleviate inconsistent bowel activity and provide essential nutrients.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Constipation Study
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Constipation
- PubMed: Diagnosis of Constipation
- PubMed: Stimulant Laxatives
- Drugs.com: Senokot
- Senokot: Manufacturer's Info
- MedlinePlus: Senna
- Drugs.com: Ducosate Calcium
- American Dietetic Association: Laxatives
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