Understanding Docusate: Uses, Side Effects, and Precautions
Docusate is a stool softener that makes bowel movements softer and easier to pass. It is commonly used to relieve constipation and irregularity, and it is available in various forms such as capsules, tablets and liquid.
Docusate Sodium Uses
Docusate is used to:
- Relieve occasional constipation.
- Soften stool to prevent straining during bowel movements, especially after a heart attack or surgery.
- Ease bowel movements in people with dry stools or hemorrhoids.
How Docusate Works
- Increases the amount of water the stool absorbs in the gut
- Makes the stool softer and easier to pass
Docusate Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
- Abdominal cramping
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- Excessive bowel activity
Serious Side Effects:
- Intestinal obstruction
- Throat irritation
- Rashes
- Low electrolyte levels
- Dependence
If you experience any serious symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
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Get A Second OpinionEssential Precautions for Using Docusate
Before taking Docusate, consult your doctor if you:
- Are allergic to Docusate or any other medications
- Have severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or a sudden change in bowel habits over 2 weeks
How to Take Docusate
- Oral Capsules and Liquid: Take usually at bedtime with a full glass of water or juice. The dosage is based on your medical condition and treatment response.
- Enema: Administer the liquid medicine into your anus as directed.
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Book an AppointmentDosage Instructions for Docusate
- Capsules: 1 capsule 3 times daily; do not exceed 5 capsules a day.
- Liquid: 2 or 3 x 5 ml spoonfuls, three times a day.
- Enema: Usually 1 tube of liquid is sufficient, a second dose can be taken later if needed.
Warnings for Serious Health Conditions
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Small amounts of Docusate may be absorbed by the intestines. Consult your doctor or midwife before use. Increasing fiber intake and fluid consumption is often recommended as first-line treatment for constipation.
Missed Dose
Missing one or two doses of Docusate generally won't affect your body. However, try to take the missed dose as soon as possible unless it's almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Overdose
Overdose of Docusate can be accidental. Taking more than the prescribed amount can lead to harmful effects and may require medical attention.
Storage
- Keep Docusate at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).
- Store the medicine away from heat, air and light to prevent damage.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Docusate vs. Bisacody
| Docusate | Linzess |
|---|---|
| Docusate is a stool softener which makes bowel movements softer and easier to move. Docusate is used to relieve constipation occasionally (irregularity). | Linzess is a medication used to treat symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Chronic Idiopathic Constipation. Linzess may be used on its own or with other medicines. |
| This medicine is being used to diagnose occasional constipation. Some medicines and conditions may make constipation more likely. Stool softeners, such as docusate, are always the first method used to prevent and treat this type of constipation. | Linzess is being used to treat certain types of gastrointestinal issues (irritable bowel syndrome with constipation, chronic idiopathic constipation). |
Some of the common side effects of Docusate are:
|
Some of the common side effects of Linzess are:
|
