Author: Charles Frank

Docusate: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action DrugBank Online

The stool softener docusate sodium, combined with the bowel stimulant senna, produces relatively fast results. But it’s important to remember that this over-the-counter laxative is an occasional rescue remedy, not a long-term treatment. To avoid potential side effects, use it only as directed.

1. If sudden changes in bowel habits last longer than 2 weeks or if your stools are still hard after you have taken this medicine for 1 week, call your doctor.
2. Stool softeners such as docusate are often the first method used for preventing and treating this type of constipation.
3. You won’t be able to disguise them in apple sauce.
4. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, take it as directed.
5. Ask a doctor before use if you notice a sudden change in bowel habits that persists over a period of 2 weeks.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions. Other drugs may affect docusate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often or for longer than directed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.

Drugs & Supplements

Do not use this product for more than 1 week unless directed by your doctor. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, measure the dose carefully using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

Dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate is of low toxicity for crustaceans such as the hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus and the shrimp Crangon crangon. Toxicity for molluscs varies widely, with 48-hour LD50 found between 5 mg/L for the common limpet and 100 mg/L for the common periwinkle. Various species of phytoplankton have an LD50 around 8 mg/L. The easiest way to lookup drug information, identify pills, check interactions and set up your own personal medication records.

Other medical uses

Ask a doctor before use if you notice a sudden change in bowel habits that persists over a period of 2 weeks. Since docusate is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it’s almost time for your next dose. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon). Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

To prevent constipation, eat dietary fiber, drink enough water, and exercise. Use this medication for temporary relief of constipation only. To prevent becoming dependent on laxatives, do not take this medication for a long period of time. Irritated throat (with liquid or syrup forms) may also occur. If your doctor has directed you to take this medication on a regular schedule and you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.

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If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

After using the enema, lie down on your left side for at least 30 minutes to allow the liquid to distribute throughout your intestines. Avoid using the bathroom, and hold in the enema at least 1 hour, or all night if possible. Docusate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Brand names of combination products

DOCUSATE (doc CUE sayt) prevents and treats occasional constipation. It works by softening the stool, making it easier to have a bowel movement. Take this medication by mouth with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) as directed by your doctor.

Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about taking this medicine. It’s safe to crush docusate and senna tablets, but they can be hard to crush, and they won’t taste good that way. You won’t be able to disguise them in apple sauce. Do not use for more than 1 week unless otherwise directed by your care team.

The dosage is based on your medical condition, age, and response to treatment. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about lifestyle changes that might benefit you. Stomach/abdominal pain or cramping, nausea, diarrhea, or weakness may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. You should not use docusate if you are allergic to it. As the actions of docusate are local and it is not absorbed, the pharmacokinetic parameters are not available9.