Docusate Calcium Has Been Discontinued – Best Replacements Explained
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"Docusate Calcium has been discontinued" is not what most people wanted to hear. The popular 240 mg softgels from Major Pharmaceuticals have helped many people manage constipation gently and effectively. If you’ve relied on Docusate Calcium, 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 why over-the-counter medications are discontinued:
Declining demand or sales
Rising production or ingredient costs
Packaging or supply chain challenges
Regulatory changes or shifts in product strategy
Whatever the reason, the fact that Docusate Calcium has been discontinued means consumers and caregivers are now searching for a dependable and affordable 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 – Key Differences
| Feature | Docusate Calcium 240 mg | Docusate Sodium 250 mg |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Discontinued by Major Pharmaceuticals | Widely available |
| Active Ingredient | Docusate Calcium | Docusate Sodium |
| Strength | 240 mg | 250 mg |
| Purpose | Stool softener | Stool softener |
| Form | Softgel capsule | Softgel or tablet |
| Typical Use | Once daily | Once or twice daily |
| Sodium Content | Low | Moderate to high |
| Best For | Low-sodium diets | General use |
If you're switching from Docusate Calcium, check with your doctor before using Docusate Sodium—especially if you're on a sodium-restricted diet.
Comparison of Docusate Calcium Alternatives
| Product | Main Ingredients | Type | Time to Work | Best For | Warnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Docusate Sodium | Docusate Sodium | Stool Softener | 12–72 hours | Everyday constipation | Monitor sodium intake |
| Senna-S | Docusate Sodium + Senna | Softener + Stimulant | 6–12 hours | Opioid-related or stubborn constipation | May cause cramping with prolonged use |
| PEG 3350 (MiraLAX) | Polyethylene Glycol 3350 | Osmotic Laxative | 1–3 days | Gentle, long-term use | Not ideal for immediate relief |
| Milk of Magnesia | Magnesium Hydroxide | Osmotic Laxative | 0.5–6 hours | Occasional constipation | Avoid with kidney issues |
| Magnesium Citrate | Magnesium Citrate | Osmotic Laxative | 0.5–6 hours | Fast-acting relief | May cause urgency; avoid with kidney disease |
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
$7.99
Major Extra Strength Docusate Sodium 250 mg – 100 Softgels | Compare to Colace® Relieve occasional constipation gently and effectively with Major Docusate Sodium 250...… read more
Major Docusate Sodium 250 mg - 100 Softgels | Extra Strength Colace (2 Pack)
$14.98
Major Extra Strength Docusate Sodium 250 mg – 200 Softgels (2 Pack) | Compare to Colace® Looking for gentle, dependable constipation relief in bulk? This...… read more
Major Docusate Sodium 250 mg - 100 Softgels | Extra Strength Colace (5 Pack)
$29.95
Major Extra Strength Docusate Sodium 250 mg Softgels – 5 Pack (500 Count) | Compare to Colace® Save big with this bulk 5-pack of Docusate...… read more
Major Docusate Sodium 250 mg - 1000 Softgels | Extra Strength Colace
$45.99
Major Extra Strength Docusate Sodium 250 mg - 1000 Softgels | Colace Goodbye Straining, Hello Soft Stools Backed up and strained? Major Extra Strength packs 250mg...… read more
Rugby Docusate Sodium Liquid 50 mg / 5 mL Stool Softener - 16 fl oz | Colace Liquid
$16.99
Rugby Docusate Sodium Liquid 50 mg / 5 mL Stool Softener Cherry Flavor - 16 fl oz | Colace Liquid Cherry flavored Stool softener Expiration...… read more
Rugby Senexon-S Docusate Sodium 50 mg / Sennosides 8.6 mg - 100 Tablets | Senokot-S
$8.99
Rugby Senexon-S Docusate Sodium 50 mg / Sennosides 8.6mg - 100 Tablets | Senokot-S Compare to the active ingredients in Senokot-S Natural vegetable laxative Ingredient...… read more
Rugby Senexon-S Natural Laxative - 100 Tablets | Senokot-S (2 Pack)
$13.99
Rugby Senexon-S Docusate Sodium 50 mg / Sennosides 8.6 mg - 100 Tablets | Senokot-S (2 Pack) What will I receive? 2 bottles of Rugby...… read more
Rugby PEG Polyethylene Glycol 3350 Powder Osmotic Laxative - 17.9 oz | MiraLAX
$19.99
Relieves occasional constipation (irregularity) and generally produces a bowel movement in 1 to 3 days. Rugby Polyethylene Glycol 3350 Powder Osmotic Laxative - 17.9 oz...… read more
Rugby PEG 3350 Osmotic Laxative Powder - 30 Doses | MiraLAX (2 Pack)
$34.98
Rugby PEG 3350 Polyethylene Glycol Osmotic Laxative Powder - 17.9 oz - 30 Doses | MiraLAX Powder (2 Pack)What will I receive?2 bottles of Rugby...… read more
About xeteor.com
xeteor.com, started in 2018 is based in Las Vegas, Nevada and is online pharmacy focusing on discount over-the-counter generic medications and diabetic test strips. We find deals normally reserved for "big pharma" and offer them to the consumer at discount prices. Ranking as the #1 authorized online reseller of Major Pharmaceuticals & Rugby Laboratories products according to Trustpilot.com, xeteor.com has 8,000+ 5-star reviews online, including Amazon, eBay, Trustpilot, and Google. xeteor.com is a Google Top Quality Store, earned by merchants that provide a great shopping experience.
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If you have questions about the product or need assistance, we are happy to talk on the phone. Call us at 1-833-787-4777 between 9 am - 5 pm PST Monday - Friday. You can also email us at [email protected] or text us at 702-659-7022. A link to our full contact us page is here.
Disclaimer: This post is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this post.
FAQs
Why has Docusate Calcium been discontinued?
Major Pharmaceuticals has not released an official reason. Common causes for discontinuation include low demand, supply issues, ingredient costs, or strategic shifts.
What is the best alternative to Docusate Calcium 240 mg?
The best direct replacement is Docusate Sodium 250 mg, which is widely available and works similarly. If you’re on a low-sodium diet, ask your doctor first.
Is Docusate Sodium the same as Docusate Calcium?
Both are stool softeners, but the sodium version contains more sodium and may not be suitable for people on sodium-restricted diets. They work the same way to soften stool.
How long does Docusate Sodium take to work?
Typically, 12 to 72 hours. It’s best for gentle, regular use—not for immediate relief.
Can I use Senna as a substitute for Docusate Calcium?
Yes, but Senna is a stimulant laxative and works differently. Products like Senna-S combine Docusate Sodium with Senna for stronger relief, but may cause cramping with long-term use.
What if I need something fast-acting?
Consider Milk of Magnesia or Magnesium Citrate for faster relief (usually within 0.5 to 6 hours). These are osmotic laxatives and should be used occasionally.
