Major Docusate Calcium Has Been Discontinued: Why It’s Gone and What to Use Instead

It’s now confirmed: Major Docusate Calcium has been discontinued. This trusted stool softener has been a go-to solution for gentle, effective constipation relief for years. If you’ve relied on the 240 mg softgel, you’re probably asking: Why was it discontinued? And more importantly—what can I use instead?

This guide explains what happened, what Docusate Calcium was used for, and the best alternatives now that Major Pharmaceuticals has stopped making it.

Why Has Major Docusate Calcium Been Discontinued?

While Major Pharmaceuticals hasn’t released an official explanation, there are several common reasons over-the-counter medications are discontinued:

• Declining demand or sales
• Increasing production or ingredient costs
• Packaging or supply chain challenges
• Regulatory changes or shifts in product strategy

Whatever the cause, the result is the same: consumers and caregivers now need a dependable alternative.

What Was Major Docusate Calcium Used For?

Docusate Calcium was a stool softener primarily used to relieve occasional constipation. It worked by helping stool absorb more water, making it softer and easier to pass—without the harsh effects of stimulant laxatives. The typical strength was 240 mg per softgel, taken once a day.

It was especially popular among:

• Seniors
• Post-surgical patients
• People sensitive to harsher laxatives

Best Alternatives to Major Docusate Calcium

Although Major Docusate Calcium has been discontinued, there are still excellent alternatives available—many from brands you already know and trust.

✅ 1. Major Docusate Sodium (Generic Colace)

• Type: Stool softener
• Strengths: 100 mg and 250 mg
• Forms: Softgels
• Note: Contains sodium—check with your doctor if you're on a low-sodium diet

✅ 2. Rugby Senexon-S (Docusate Sodium + Senna)

• Type: Stool softener + stimulant
• Best for: Constipation from opioids or medications
• Note: May cause mild cramping with long-term use

✅ 3. Rugby PEG 3350 (Polyethylene Glycol)

• Type: Osmotic laxative
• Brands: MiraLAX, Rugby PEG 3350
• Best for: Gentle, long-term use
• Note: Takes 1–3 days to work

✅ 4. Milk of Magnesia or Magnesium Citrate

• Type: Osmotic laxative
• Best for: Fast-acting occasional relief
• Note: Avoid if you have kidney disease or electrolyte issues

Docusate Calcium vs. Docusate Sodium: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Comparison of Docusate Calcium Alternatives

Final Thoughts

While it’s disappointing that Major Docusate Calcium has been discontinued, there are safe and effective options available. Whether you choose Docusate Sodium, Senna-S, or PEG 3350, you can still manage constipation without missing a beat.

Need an Alternative Now?

While Major Docusate Calcium has been discontinued, we carry a full selection of affordable stool softeners and constipation relief products—no prescription required, and fast shipping.

Major Docusate Sodium 250 mg - 100 Softgels | Extra Strength Colace

$8.99

Major Extra Strength Docusate Sodium 250 mg - 100 Softgels | Colace Expiration Date: 1-2027 Active Ingredient Docusate Sodium 250 mg - Stool softener laxative...… read more