Docusate oral/rectal

Generic name: Docusate (oral/rectal)
Drug class: Laxatives

Usage of Docusate oral/rectal

Docusate is a stool softener that makes bowel movements softer and easier to pass.

Docusate is used to relieve occasional constipation (irregularity).

There are many brands and forms of docusate available. Not all brands are listed on this leaflet.

Docusate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Docusate oral/rectal side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using docusate and call your doctor at once if:

you have rectal bleeding;

no bowel movement occurs after using a laxative;

you need to use a stool softener for more than 1 week; or

rash occurs.

Less serious side effects may be more likely, and you may have none at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before taking Docusate oral/rectal

You should not use docusate if you are allergic to it.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if docusate is safe to use if you have:

stomach pain;

nausea;

vomiting; or

a sudden change in bowel habits that lasts over 2 weeks.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

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How to use Docusate oral/rectal

Usual Adult Dose for Constipation:

Oral: 50 to 400 mg (using any of the salt forms) orally administered in 1 to 4 equally divided doses each day. Rectal: 200 to 283 mg rectally administered as an enema once or twice.Alternative: 50 to 100 mg (docusate sodium liquid) added to a retention or flushing enema once a day.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Constipation:

Oral:less than 3 years: 10 to 40 mg (docusate sodium) orally divided in 1 to 4 doses.3 to 6 years: 20 to 60 mg (docusate sodium) orally divided in 1 to 4 doses.6 to 12 years: 40 to 150 mg (docusate sodium) orally divided in 1 to 4 doses.greater than 12 years: 50 to 400 mg (using any of the salt forms) orally administered in 1 to 4 equally divided doses each day.Rectal: 3 to 18 years: 50 to 100 mg (docusate sodium liquid) added to a retention or flushing enema once a day.Alternative: 200 to 283 mg rectally administered as an enema once daily as needed for constipation.

Warnings

You should not use docusate if you also use mineral oil, unless your doctor tells you to.

What other drugs will affect Docusate oral/rectal

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.

Disclaimer

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