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Docusate (oral/rectal)

Generic name: docusate (oral/rectal) [ DOK-ue-sate ]
Brand names: Colace, Colace Clear, Docu Soft, Doculase, Docusate Mini, ... show all 54 brands
Dosage forms: oral capsule (calcium 240 mg; sodium 100 mg; sodium 250 mg; sodium 50 mg), oral liquid (10 mg/mL), ... show all 6 dosage forms
Drug class: Laxatives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jul 28, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is docusate?

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 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:

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.

Warnings

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

Before taking this medicine

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:

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

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

How should I use docusate?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Drink plenty of liquids while you are using docusate.

Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

Do not take the rectal enema by mouth. Rectal medicine is for use only in the rectum.

Wash your hands before and after using the enema.

To use the enema, lie on your left side with your left leg extended and your right leg slightly bent. Remove the cap from the applicator tip and gently insert the tip into your rectum. Slowly squeeze the bottle to empty the contents into the rectum.

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.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Docusate generally produces bowel movement in 12 to 72 hours. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 72 hours.

You should not use docusate for longer than 1 week, unless your doctor tells you to.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, light, and heat. Do not freeze liquid medicine.

Docusate dosing information

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.

What happens if I miss a dose?

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. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while using docusate?

Avoid using mineral oil, unless told to do so by a doctor.

What other drugs will affect docusate?

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.

Popular FAQ

Any drug that is classified as an "opioid" can cause constipation. Examples of commonly prescribed opioids that may cause this side effect include morphine, tramadol, fentanyl, methadone, hydrocodone, codeine and oxycodone. Continue reading

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.