What is docusate?
Docusate is a stool softener. It makes bowel movements softer and easier to pass.
Docusate is used to treat constipation, and to reduce pain or rectal damage caused by hard
stools or by straining during bowel movements.
Docusate may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking docusate?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to docusate.
If you have certain conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use
this medication. Before using docusate, tell your doctor if you have:
-
an intestinal disorder such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis;
or
-
stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.
This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if
you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether docusate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby.
Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take docusate?
Use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for
longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Take this medication with a full glass of water.
Do not crush, chew, break, or open a docusate capsule. Swallow the pill whole.
Measure liquid medicine with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon.
If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one. Mix the liquid with 6 to 8
ounces of milk, fruit juice, or infant formula and drink the mixture right away.
Wash your hands before and after using docusate rectal enema.
Try to empty your bowel and bladder just before using the enema.
Use only the applicator provided with the medication to insert it into your rectum.
For best results from the enema, lie down on your left side for at least 30 minutes after using the
enema to allow the liquid to distribute throughout your intestines. Avoid using the bathroom during this
time.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse after using this
medicine for 1 to 3 days.
Store docusate at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose of docusate?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait
until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose.
Do not
take extra medicine
to make up the missed dose.
Where can I get more information about docusate?
Your pharmacist has information about docusate written for health professionals that you may read.
What are the possible side effects of docusate?
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these
signs of an allergic
reaction:
hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using docusate and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:
Less serious side effects may include:
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your
doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at
1-800-FDA-1088.
What is the most important information I should know about docusate?
Before using docusate, tell your doctor if you have an intestinal disorder such as Crohn's
disease or ulcerative colitis, or stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.
Do not take mineral oil or aspirin while using docusate, unless otherwise directed by your
health care provider.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse after using this
medicine for 1 to 3 days.
What should I avoid while taking docusate?
Avoid using laxatives or other stool softeners unless your doctor has told you to.
What other drugs will affect docusate?
Tell your doctor about all other medications you use, especially:
This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with
docusate. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins,
minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication
without telling your doctor.
What happens if I have an overdose of docusate?