Docusate Sodium with the brand name of Colace is more than likely the best medication on the market today for constipation.
“Being regular” in medical terminology means you will use the bathroom anywhere from 3x a day to 3x a week. To actually feel good this is not good enough. It should be at the minimum 5x a week. The act of being constipated also can involve the how large and what consistency your stool actually is. It also concerns if you strain when you or have stomach pains or always feel the need to utilize the toilet.
The most frequent reason for constipation is most likely due to not eating enough fiber. Your age also is a factor and the elderly have constipation more often.
What is the plan if you have constipation? First you need to increase your fruits and vegetables. Think of taking a fiber supplement. Also get more exercise in the form of walking after meals.
Docusate sodium is good because it can soften the stool so it is not so painful to actually go to the bathroom. You could also try mineral oil or something like Ex-Lax. If you are going to use Ex-Lax do not use it for more than 48 hours as it completely clears your bowels.
Worst case scenario for most people would be enemas. Castor oil if you can stand it can also be used for constipation. If the constipation involves a baby or young child make sure and check with your doctor.
Is there any natural solutions? Flatulence is often the cause of not having gut flora. This is good bacteria in your digestive system. Think about taking a digestive enzyme when you eat. There is always flaxseed that you could consider taking.
Rather rare but good is the yellow powdered aloe vera. This has a natural laxative that is in it. Start off by trying the Docusate Sodium.