Colace (Liquid and Syrup)
Generic name: Docusate Liquid and Syrup [ DOK-yoo-sate ]
Brand names: Colace, Diocto
Drug class: Laxatives
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 10, 2024.
Uses of Colace:
- It is used to treat constipation.
What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Colace?
- If you have an allergy to docusate or any other part of Colace (docusate liquid and syrup).
- If you are allergic to Colace (docusate liquid and syrup); any part of Colace (docusate liquid and syrup); or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had.
- If you have any of these health problems: Bowel block, belly pain, upset stomach, rectal bleeding, throwing up, or change in bowel habits lasting longer than 2 weeks.
- If you are taking mineral oil.
This is not a list of all drugs or health problems that interact with Colace (docusate liquid and syrup).
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take Colace (docusate liquid and syrup) with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.
What are some things I need to know or do while I take Colace?
- Tell all of your health care providers that you take Colace (docusate liquid and syrup). This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
- Do not use Colace (docusate liquid and syrup) for more than 1 week unless told to do so by your doctor.
- If you have rectal bleeding or you do not have a bowel movement after using Colace (docusate liquid and syrup), talk with your doctor.
- Do not use other laxatives or stool softeners unless told to do so by the doctor.
- If you are on a low-sodium or sodium-free diet, talk with your doctor. Some of these products have sodium.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan on getting pregnant, or are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks to you and the baby.
How is this medicine (Colace) best taken?
Use Colace (docusate liquid and syrup) as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.
- Take with or without food.
- Take with a full glass of water.
- Mix liquid with milk, juice, or formula as you have been told.
- Measure liquid doses carefully. Use the measuring device that comes with Colace (docusate liquid and syrup). If there is none, ask the pharmacist for a device to measure Colace (docusate liquid and syrup).
- Some of these drugs need to be shaken before use. Be sure you know if this product needs to be shaken before using it.
What do I do if I miss a dose?
- If you take Colace (docusate liquid and syrup) on a regular basis, take a missed dose as soon as you think about it.
- If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time.
- Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.
- Many times Colace (docusate liquid and syrup) is taken on an as needed basis. Do not take more often than told by the doctor.
What are some side effects that I need to call my doctor about right away?
WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Related/similar drugs
MiraLAX, docusate, lactulose, bisacodyl, senna, magnesium oxide
What are some other side effects of Colace?
All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:
- Stomach cramps.
These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
If OVERDOSE is suspected:
If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.
How do I store and/or throw out Colace?
- Store at room temperature. Do not freeze.
- Store in a dry place. Do not store in a bathroom.
- Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
- Throw away unused or expired drugs. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs. There may be drug take-back programs in your area.
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
- If your symptoms or health problems do not get better or if they become worse, call your doctor.
- Do not share your drugs with others and do not take anyone else's drugs.
- Some drugs may have another patient information leaflet. Check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions about Colace (docusate liquid and syrup), please talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
- If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.
Frequently asked questions
- Which drugs cause opioid-induced constipation?
- What is the maximum dosage for Colace stool softener at one time?
More about Colace (docusate)
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Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.