Agents to Relieve Constipation
| Class | Drug and Dosage | Estimated Cost/Dose* |
|---|---|---|
| Stimulant Laxatives | Bisacodyl (Dulcolax, Correctol, others): 5–10 mg orally | $0.30–0.60 |
| Senna (Senokot, others): 17.2 mg at bedtime | $0.15–0.30 | |
| Osmotic Laxatives | Lactulose (Cephulac, others): 15–30 mL bid (may be administered orally or rectally) | $0.62–1.25 |
| Polyethylene glycol (MiraLax): 17 g/day in 8 oz of water | $1.30 | |
| Sorbitol 70% solution: 15–30 mL bid (may be administered orally or rectally) | $0.25–0.50 | |
| Emollient Laxatives | Docusate (Colace, others): 200–800 mg/day in 2 divided doses | $0.05–0.20 |
| Combination Agents | Docusate (50 mg) plus senna (8.6 mg) tablets (Senokot–S, others): 2–4 tablets once or twice daily | $0.30–0.60 |
* Cost is estimated using prices listed at www.drugstore.com (2004 Mar). Generic drugs were used whenever available.
bid, twice daily.