Best Capsule Laxatives of 2026

Bonnie Salem Avatar
Bonnie Salem
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2026

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Capsule laxatives are a popular choice for those seeking relief from constipation. These small capsules are easy to swallow and work by stimulating the muscles in the intestines to promote bowel movements. They are made with gentle ingredients, such as senna leaf extract, and are designed to provide fast and effective relief without causing discomfort or cramping. Capsule laxatives are also convenient for those on-the-go, as they can be taken with water or juice anytime, anywhere. Whether for occasional use or as part of a regular routine, capsule laxatives can help maintain regularity and promote digestive health.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Colace Regular Strength Stool Softener 100 mg Cover #TOP 1
Colace Regular Strength Stool Softener 100 mg
ftb score rating icon 9.8
HealthA2Z Stool Softener 100mg Cover #TOP 2
HealthA2Z Stool Softener 100mg
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Colace Clear Stool Softener 50 mg Capsules Cover #TOP 3
Colace Clear Stool Softener 50 mg Capsules
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Capsule Laxatives

#TOP 1

Colace Regular Strength Stool Softener 100 mg

20367618000032
Colace Regular Strength Stool Softener 100 mg Cover
Colace Stool Softener 100 mg, 100 Capsules, Constipation Relief, Docusate Sodium, Gentle Docusate, Stimulant-Free, Regular Strength, #1 Doctor Recommended Stool Softener Brand

Colace Stool Softener is a trusted solution for occasional constipation relief, recommended by doctors for over 65 years. It provides gentle and effective relief within 12 to 72 hours, making it a reliable choice for those experiencing irregular bowel movements. This stimulant-free option softens hard stools, allowing for a more comfortable experience when you need to go. It's particularly helpful for individuals during pregnancy or post-partum, addressing common symptoms like straining and dry stools. With Colace, you can achieve relief without the harshness of stimulant laxatives.

What We Like
Gentle stool softening
No cramping or urgency
Easy to swallow capsules
Good value for money
Safe for pregnancy, postpartum
#TOP 2

HealthA2Z Stool Softener 100mg

FPA064
Red & White
400 Count
HealthA2Z Stool Softener 100mg Cover
HealthA2Z® Stool Softener | Docusate Sodium 100mg | Red & White Capsules | Dependable | Gentle Constipation Relief (400 Counts)

HealthA2Z Stool Softener is designed to provide gentle relief from occasional constipation and bowel irregularity. The active ingredient, Docusate Sodium, helps your body absorb more water into the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. This product is stimulant-free, allowing for a natural bowel movement within 12 to 72 hours. It is particularly useful for preventing dry, hard stools, ensuring you feel comfortable and relieved. Ideal for adults and children over 12, taking 1-3 softgels daily, preferably at bedtime, can help maintain regularity without harsh side effects.

What We Like
Gentle constipation relief
Stimulant-free formula
Works in 12-72 hours
Softens stool effectively
#TOP 3

Colace Clear Stool Softener 50 mg Capsules

20367618000209
Sky Blue
Colace Clear Stool Softener 50 mg Capsules Cover
Colace Clear Stool Softener for Gentle Effective Constipation Relief, #1 Doctor Recommended Stool Softener Brand, Dye Free, 50 mg Docusate Capsules, 60 Count

Colace Stool Softener offers gentle and reliable relief from constipation, making it easier for you to have regular bowel movements without discomfort. This product works by increasing the water content in your stool, helping it become softer and easier to pass. It’s free from dyes, stimulants, and harsh laxatives, so you can avoid cramping and straining. Many doctors recommend it, especially during pregnancy or after surgery, because it provides effective relief without harsh side effects. If you want a dependable way to ease occasional constipation, Colace Stool Softener is a trustworthy choice.

What We Like
#1 doctor recommended
Gentle constipation relief
Dye and stimulant free
Softens stool effectively
Works within 12-72 hours
#TOP 4

Dulcolax Stool Softener Laxative, 100mg, 100ct

681421022040
Regular
Dulcolax Stool Softener Laxative, 100mg, 100ct Cover
Dulcolax Stool Softener Laxative Liquid Gel Capsules, Gentle Constipation Relief for Hard, Dry Stools, Docusate Sodium 100 mg, 100 Count

Dulcolax Stool Softener Laxative is a gentle relief for those experiencing constipation and irregularity. The active ingredient, docusate sodium, is highly recommended by doctors as it helps ease bowel movement. The 100mg liquid gel tablets are made to make it easier for you to go without the uncomfortable feeling of being forced to go.

What We Like
Gentle relief for constipation and irregularity
Made with active ingredient docusate sodium, the No. 1 doctor recommended stool softener ingredient
100mg liquid gel tablets are easy to swallow
#TOP 5

Colace Extra Strength Stool Softener 250 mg, 60 Count

20367618000179
Colace Extra Strength Stool Softener 250 mg, 60 Count Cover
Colace Extra Strength Stool Softener for Gentle Effective Constipation Relief, #1 Doctor Recommended Stool Softener Brand, 250 mg Docusate Capsules, 60 Count (Pack of 1)

The Colace Extra Strength Softener is a trusted choice for gentle and reliable constipation relief. As the top doctor-recommended brand, it’s safe for use during pregnancy and after surgery, giving you peace of mind. This stool softener works by increasing the water content in your stool, making it easier and more comfortable to pass. You won’t have to worry about harsh side effects, as it provides relief without causing cramping or straining. If you experience irregular or difficult bowel movements, this product offers a gentle, effective way to soften stool and ease your discomfort.

What We Like
Doctor recommended
Gentle relief
No cramping
Softens stool
#TOP 6

Emma Gut Health 2 Pack Capsules

Emma
860010712207
Emma Gut Health 2 Pack Capsules Cover
Emma Gut Health - 2 Pack - Gas and Bloating Relief, Constipation, Leaky Gut Repair - Gut Cleanse & Restore Digestion - Regulate Bowel Movement. Probiotics and Laxative Alternative, 120 Capsules

Emma Gut Health Relief is designed to help you improve your digestion and regulate your bathroom habits with ease. It works by addressing the root causes of digestive discomfort, so you don’t have to depend on temporary fixes like laxatives or probiotics that might cause other issues. With this supplement, you can enjoy your favorite foods without worrying about gas or bloating, helping you feel more confident and comfortable. Additionally, it supports a healthier gut by balancing your digestive enzymes and microbiome, which can also lead to better skin, increased metabolism, and more energy throughout the day.

What We Like
Improves digestion speed
Addresses root digestive issues
Reduces gas and bloating
Supports gut and enzyme balance
Boosts energy and metabolism
#TOP 7

Traditional Medicinals Smooth Move Senna Laxative Capsules

101801
No Color
Traditional Medicinals Smooth Move Senna Laxative Capsules Cover
Traditional Medicinals - Smooth Move Laxative Capsules - Contains Organic Senna - Natural Herbal Constipation Relief - 50 Capsules (1 Pack)

Traditional Medicinals Smooth Move Senna Laxative Capsules are non-GMO verified and certified organic. The consistently high-quality herbs are sourced from ethical trading partnerships. The product is designed to provide natural herbal constipation relief and fresh, floral taste with sweet notes of apple. This product is intended only for the health concern of constipation and is not meant to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease.

What We Like
Non-GMO verified and certified organic
Consistently high-quality herbs from ethical trading partnerships
Natural herbal constipation relief
#TOP 8

HealthA2Z Stool Softener Docusate Sodium 100mg

FPA065
Red Softgels
HealthA2Z Stool Softener Docusate Sodium 100mg Cover
HealthA2Z® Stool Softener | Docusate Sodium 100mg | Gentle Constipation Relief | Dependable & Easy to Take | Red Capsules | 400 Counts (Pack of 1)

The HealthA2Z Stool Softener is designed to help you ease occasional constipation by gently softening your stools, making bowel movements more comfortable. Its reliable formula works without harsh stimulants, so you can count on smooth and predictable relief without discomfort. The softgels are easy to swallow and gentle on your stomach, providing a simple way to take care of your digestive health. This product is perfect for adults looking for consistent and gentle support to maintain regularity and avoid the discomfort of irregular bowel habits.

What We Like
Gentle stool softening
Reliable, stimulant-free formula
Easy-to-swallow softgels
Supports regular bowel movements
#TOP 9

Colace Clear Stool Softener 50 mg Capsules

20367618000001
Colace Clear Stool Softener 50 mg Capsules Cover
Colace Clear Stool Softener for Gentle Effective Constipation Relief, #1 Doctor Recommended Stool Softener Brand, Dye Free, 50 mg Docusate Capsules, 42 Count

The Colace Stool Softener is a trusted choice if you need gentle and reliable relief from constipation. It’s the top stool softener recommended by doctors, making it a safe option even during pregnancy or after surgery. This product works by adding moisture to your stool, which helps make bowel movements easier and less painful. Because it doesn’t contain dyes, stimulants, or harsh laxatives, you can avoid uncomfortable cramps and straining. With Colace Stool Softener, you get a gentle yet effective solution to occasional constipation that supports your digestive comfort.

What We Like
#1 doctor recommended
Gentle on stomach
Dye and stimulant free
Softens stool effectively
Reduces cramping and straining
#TOP 10

Dulcolax Stool Softener Laxative Liquid Gel Capsules (25ct)

ZTC-014
Multi
Dulcolax Stool Softener Laxative Liquid Gel Capsules (25ct) Cover
Dulcolax Stool Softener Laxative Liquid Gel Capsules, Gentle Constipation Relief for Hard, Dry Stools, Docusate Sodium 100 mg, 25 Count

Dulcolax Stool Softener Laxative Liquid Gel Capsules (25ct) is a gentle relief for constipation and irregularity. It contains docusate sodium, the #1 doctor recommended stool softener ingredient, which makes it easier for you to go. This stool softener won't make you go, but it will make the process more comfortable.

What We Like
Gentle relief for constipation and irregularity
Contains docusate sodium, the #1 doctor recommended stool softener ingredient
Makes the process of going easier and more comfortable
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best laxative tablet?

Stimulant laxatives such as Senokot (made from senna pods) and Dulcolax (active ingredient: bisacodyl) are the fastest-working oral laxatives, with overnight results. They stimulate the muscles lining your gut, helping to move things along.

2. How fast does a pill laxative work?

It may take 6 to 12 hours before this medication causes a bowel movement. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens, or if bleeding from the rectum occurs. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention.

3. Is there a laxative in pill form?

Dulcolax is an OTC medication that contains bisacodyl, a stimulant laxative. It is available in brand and generic and in tablet or suppository form. The suppository works quickly, producing a bowel movement within 15-60 minutes, and the tablets take about six to twelve hours to work.

4. Which laxative is best for impacted stool?

Polyethylene glycol (Miralax) is preferred over lactulose for the treatment of constipation because it is more effective and has fewer adverse effects. Linaclotide (Linzess) and lubiprostone (Amitiza) are more effective than placebo for chronic constipation.

Editor's Notes

During our capsule laxative research, we found 24 capsule laxative products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 292,506 customer reviews through our big data system to write the capsule laxatives list. We found that most customers choose capsule laxatives with an average price of $12.82.

The capsule laxatives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of capsule laxatives, including Colace, HealthA2Z, Dulcolax, Emma, Traditional Medicinals. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 259 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Bonnie Salem Avatar

Bonnie Salem is a stay-at-home mother with two-year-old twins and has spent almost half of her life surrounded by baby products. As a mother and a professional copywriter, she has an insightful and unique eye for researching products suitable for infants. Bonnie Salem is an expert in health and nutrition who lives with her family in New Jersey. She has over 15 years of working experience in an institute of medicine after graduating from the University of Toronto. She is highly interested in personal health and wellness.