Objective: To provide brief information on the effectiveness of
docusate use for
constipation in older people. Data Sources: PubMed search using the following terms ("
docusate and chronic
constipation," "
docusate, chronic
constipation and geriatric," "
docusate, chronic
constipation and older adult," "
docusate and randomized controlled trial" and included relevant information related to
docusate and chronic
constipation in the population described. Study Selection: Studies that fit the criteria for "chronic/general
constipation," "geriatric/older adults," and/or "randomized controlled trials" were included. Four studies described
docusate for chronic/general
constipation and older people. Not included were other studies not related to chronic/general
constipation and older people (eg, surgery-related). Data Extraction: Data extraction from each study included primary outcomes related to chronic
constipation and efficacy of
docusate. Data also included relevant reports from other relevant trials and discussions. Data Synthesis:
Docusate when compared with placebo or
psyllium or
sennosides in these trials did not show any benefits for
constipation.
Psyllium and
sennosides showed to be more effective compared with
docusate. No differences found between
docusate versus placebo. In summary, there is a lack of data to support the use of
docusate for
constipation and the data presented that
docusate is not effective for use in
constipation. Conclusion:
Docusate is commonly used for
constipation despite little evidence supporting its efficacy. There is not enough randomized controlled trial and data to support the use of
docusate for
constipation. Pharmacists along with health care providers should reassess and reconsider whether to use it and add extra layers to an already complex medication regimen in the older adult population.