how does docusate work

Precautions

Colace (docusate) and Dulcolax (bisacodyl) are laxative drugs that can treat constipation. Although they are both laxatives, Colace is an emollient laxative and Dulcolax is a stimulant laxative. Simply so, what drug class is docusate sodium?

Is docusate and Dulcolax the same thing?

While there have been no reported health risks for users of docusate sodium, people should be aware of its possible side effects before starting a treatment regimen. If you have any questions about your treatment or the safety of docusate, talk to your doctor.

Is docusate sodium safe for daily use?

These medications work by actively drawing fats and water into the stool, and easing bowel movement. The active ingredient in Miralax is Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) 3350, a common over-the-counter laxative that is used in the treatment of constipation. Colace is used to treat and prevent constipation caused by hard stools.

Is Colace over the counter?

No,: it is a stool softener. It does not increase motility as a function of most laxatives. A stool softener,: not a laxative. A laxative will induce bowel movement. So i should stop docusate sodium, and start magnezium 250mg, aren't both of them laxatives. and how long i should stay with magnesium?

Is docusate sodium a laxative?

Is it OK to take docusate sodium every day?

No, and you shouldn't need to take stool softeners every day. Don't take stool softeners for more than one week unless you're under the direction of your healthcare provider. If you have sudden changes in your bowel habits that last longer than two weeks, call your provider.

What are the side effects of taking docusate sodium?

Side effects of docusate include:Abdominal cramping.Stomach pain.Diarrhea.Excessive bowel activity.Intestinal obstruction.Throat irritation.Rash.Low electrolyte levels (excessive use)More items...

How effective is docusate sodium?

In this placebo-controlled, crossover study, patients were randomized to receive docusate sodium 100 mg or placebo 3 times daily for 4 weeks. The investigators reported that docusate increased stool frequency by a mean of 1 BM per week compared with placebo; this difference was found to be statistically significant.

What is the mechanism of action of docusate sodium?

Mechanism of Action Docusate is an anionic surfactant (i.e., a surface-active agent). It lowers the surface tension at the oil-water interface of the feces, allowing water and lipids to penetrate the stool. This helps to hydrate and soften the fecal material, facilitating natural defecation.

Do stool softeners work if you are already constipated?

Stool softeners like docusate (Colace) work by reducing the hardness of stools, which should make them easier to pass. Problem is, they won't do much if you're already constipated, since they take three of four days to kick in, he adds. But they can help treat chronic constipation.

When should you not take docusate?

Never give docusate to a child under 12 years old unless their doctor prescribes it. Docusate is not suitable for some people....Importantever had an allergic reaction to docusate or any other medicines.a blockage in your gut (intestine)stomach pains.been feeling sick or have vomited in the last 24 hours.

Can I take 2 docusate at once?

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.

How long does docusate sodium take to kick in?

How long does it take for docusate (Colace) to work? Most people who take a docusate (Colace) capsule will have a bowel movement within 12 to 72 hours. The enema works a lot faster, and you should expect a bowel movement 2 to 15 minutes after inserting the medication.

How long does docusate last?

Docusate softens bowel motions (stools/poo) making them easier to pass. May be used for the treatment of occasional constipation. Usually taken at bedtime for 2-3 days until bowel motions are normal. Works within 12 to 72 hours.

Is docusate a stool softener or stimulant?

Docusate, or dioctyl sulfosuccinate, is a stool softener indicated for the treatment of constipation 1. Docusate acts by increasing the amount of water the stool absorbs in the gut, making the stool softer and easier to pass 7. Docusate can be orally or rectally administered.

Can I take 2 stool softeners at once?

Take stool softeners exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the docusate capsules whole; do not split, chew, or crush them. Take capsules and tablets with a full glass of water.

What is the safest stool softener to use daily?

In general, bulk-forming laxatives, also referred to as fiber supplements, are the gentlest on your body and safest to use long term. Metamucil and Citrucel fall into this category.

What is the safest stool softener to use daily?

In general, bulk-forming laxatives, also referred to as fiber supplements, are the gentlest on your body and safest to use long term. Metamucil and Citrucel fall into this category.

How long can you take docusate sodium?

Do not take more docusate than recommended or take for longer than seven days. Talk to your doctor before taking if you have any stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting, or have experienced a sudden change in bowel motions that has persisted for longer than two weeks.

Is docusate a laxative or stool softener?

Docusate is a stool softener. It works by increasing the amount of water the stool absorbs in the gut, making the stool softer and easier to pass.

Does docusate sodium raise blood pressure?

Does docusate sodium raise blood pressure? Even though docusate sodium contains elements that can raise blood pressure, it does not cause an increase in blood pressure.

How long does it take for docusate (Colace) to work?

Most people who take a docusate (Colace) capsule will have a bowel movement within 12 to 72 hours. The enema works a lot faster, and you should exp...

Are docusate (Colace) and bisacodyl (Dulcolax) the same?

No, even though the two medications sound very similar, they aren't the same. Dulcolax is a brand name for the laxative, bisacodyl. It can get a li...

Is it bad to take docusate (Colace) every day?

Docusate (Colace) doesn't have a lot of serious side effects, but you shouldn't take it long-term unless directed by your healthcare provider. It's...

What time of day should I take docusate (Colace)?

Docusate (Colace) can be taken at any time during the day. If you know how your body responds to the medication, you can try to time your dose so t...

Is docusate (Colace) a laxative?

Yes, docusate (Colace) is an "osmotic laxative," which is one of many types of laxatives. Laxatives work in different ways to help treat constipati...

Before Taking This Medicine

You should not use docusate if you are allergic to it, or if you have: 1. nausea, vomiting, or severe stomach pain; 2. a blockage in your intestine...

How Should I Use Docusate?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.Take...

What Happens If I Miss A Dose?

Since docusate is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are on a schedule, use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Ski...

What Happens If I Overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting or stomach pain.

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. Re...

What Other Drugs Will Affect Docusate?

Other drugs may interact with docusate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your hea...

What is docusate used for?

Uses. This medication is used to treat occasional constipation. Some medications and conditions can make constipation more likely. Stool softeners such as docusate are often the first method used for preventing and treating this type of constipation.

When to use docusate?

Docusate is often used when straining to have a bowel movement should be avoided (e.g., after a heart attack or surgery).Docusate is a stool softener. It works by increasing the amount of water the stool absorbs in the gut, making the stool softer and easier to pass.

What to do before taking a sulfate med?

Precautions. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Can you flush expired medication down the toilet?

Do not flush medicationsdown the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacistor local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.

What is docusate used for?

Docusate may be used for the treatment of constipation.

How to take docusate?

The liquid may be mixed with milk, fruit juice, or infant formula and drunk straight away. Take docusate capsules with a full glass of water, usually at bedtime. Take extra fluids throughout the day to help the effectiveness of docusate. Water also helps to relieve constipation.

How long does it take for a bowel movement to occur after taking Docusate?

A bowel movement usually occurs within one to three days of taking docusate. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do not use docusate until you have spoken with your doctor.

How long does it take for a syringe to work?

May be used for the treatment of occasional constipation. Usually taken at bedtime for 2-3 days until bowel motions are normal. Works within 12 to 72 hours. Available as both oral tablets, oral syrup/solution, and rectal suppositories/enema.

What are the side effects of docusate?

Downsides. If you are between the ages of 18 and 60, take no other medication or have no other medical conditions, side effects you are more likely to experience include: Bitter taste, bloating, diarrhea, flatulence (gas), or irritation around the rectum or throat.

When to not use docusate?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do not use docusate until you have spoken with your doctor.

Does docusate help with hemorrhoids?

Docusate can reduce straining which may be beneficial for people with hemorrhoids (piles) or an anal fissure. Docusate has not been associated with any adverse effects during pregnancy, but you should talk with your doctor before taking docusate or any other medication while pregnant or breastfeeding.

What is docusate?

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

How should I use docusate?

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

How long does it take for docusate to work?

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 and heat. Do not freeze liquid medicine.

How to use rectum medicine?

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.

Can you freeze liquid medicine?

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

Can you use docusate with mineral oil?

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

How does docusate sodium work?

Docusate sodium works by allowing more water to be absorbed by the stool. Docusate does not stay in the gastrointestinal tract, but is absorbed into the bloodstream and excreted via the gallbladder after undergoing extensive metabolism. The effect of docusate may not necessarily be all due to its surfactant properties.

What are docusate salts used for?

Docusate salts are also used as food additives, emulsifiers, dispersants, and wetting agents, among other uses.

What is the most widely used surfactant in reverse micelle encapsulation studies?

Sodium docusate is the most widely used surfactant in reverse micelle encapsulation studies.

How to make sodium dioctyl sulfosuccinate?

Sodium dioctyl sulfosuccinate can be obtained by treating dioctyl maleate with sodium bisulfite. The bisulfite anion adds to the double bond :

What is the name of the brand of dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate?

In the UK, dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate is sold under the brand name Docusol (Typharm Ltd) and DulcoEase (Boehringer Ingelheim). In Australia, dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate is sold as Coloxyl and Coloxyl with senna . In India, preparations include Laxatin by Alembic, Doslax by Raptakos Laboratories, Cellubril by AstraZeneca, and Laxicon by Stadmed.

How long does it take for sodium docusate to work?

When administered by mouth, a bowel movement often occurs in 1 to 3 days, while rectal use may be effective within 20 minutes. Sodium docusate is recommended as a stool softener for children. However, its effectiveness for constipation is poorly supported by evidence.

What is the structural formula for docusate anion?

The structural formula of the docusate anion is R−O−C (=O)−CH (SO−#N#3)−CH#N#2−C (=O)−O−R , where R is the 2-ethylhexyl group H#N#3C− (CH#N#2)#N#3−C (−CH#N#2−CH#N#3)H−CH#N#2−. The conjugate acid can be described as the twofold carboxylate ester of sulfosuccinic acid with 2-ethylhexanol .

What is docusate used for?

Docusate is part of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) family: NSAIDs (Niacin, Pepcid, and Glucosamine) are used to treat the symptoms of arthritis, chronic inflammation of the joints and in some patients to decrease the effects of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis.

How to avoid side effects of docusate?

The best way to avoid any negative side effects associated with docusate is to talk with your doctor about what your particular needs are . Your doctor may prescribe something stronger to treat symptoms of your condition , especially if your doctor suspects a serious problem. Also, check with your pharmacist to see if docusate is available with other vitamins and minerals in the form of supplements.

What is the Most Common Side Effects of Docosaic Sodium?

A side effect of docusate sodium is known as renal dysfunction, which causes problems with uric acid levels in the body. When this happens, kidneys will fail to eliminate acid and calcium deposits from the blood.

What is the most recent supplement?

The most recent supplement in the family of supplements is a supplement called Docusate Sodium. This is a natural supplement that contains a special blend of herbs to help people get their daily recommended allowances of sodium for a healthier body weight. To take this supplement, it must be taken according to a prescription ...

Can you mix docusate with other foods?

You will also be able to find out more information about it when you go online. Some websites will show you how to mix your Docusate Sodium with other foods so that you can get your sodium in your diet. This way you will get the most benefits out of the supplement without having to worry about too much mixing.

Can docusate sodium cause kidney failure?

This may lead to the occurrence of kidney disease in some cases. The other effects of docusate sodium include: It can also lead to kidney failure if the kidneys are not working properly. When the kidneys fail to work well, they cannot remove waste from the body.

Does docusate cause redness?

This may lead to redness, itching, swelling, burning and blistering of the skin. While there have been no reported health risks for users of docusate sodium, people should be aware of its possible side effects before starting a treatment regimen.

What is the difference between docusate and senna?

Docusate is a stool softener. Senna is a laxative.

What other drugs will affect docusate and senna?

Other drugs may affect docusate and senna, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

How long does it take for senna to work?

Docusate and senna should cause you to have a bowel movement within 6 to 12 hours. Do not take docusate and senna for longer than 7 days in a row, unless your doctor tells you to. Call your doctor if your constipation does not improve or if it gets worse after taking docusate and senna.

Can you stop taking Docusate and Senna?

Stop using docusate and senna and call your doctor at once if you have: no bowel movement. mild nausea. 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.

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..

Further information

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

Is docusate used for constipation?

A systematic review of the usefulness of docusate in chronically ill patients concluded that the widespread use of docusate for the treatment of constipation in palliative-care patients is based on inadequate experimental evidence ( J Pain Symptom Manage. 2000 Feb;19 [2]:130-6 ).

Is docusate more effective than placebo?

The Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health concluded “the available evidence suggests that docusate is no more effective than placebo in the prevention or management of constipation” (Dioctyl sulfosuccinate or docusate [calcium or sodium] for the prevention or management of constipation: a review of the clinical effectiveness. Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health; 2014 Jun 26 ).

Is docusate a laxative?

I have been surprised at how docusate has been the most commonly prescribed laxative agent. Polyethylene glycol or psyllium are better evidence-based options. Docusate is often prescribed as a stool softener, and it has even less evidence that it softens stool than its poor evidence as a laxative.

How It Works

Upsides

Downsides

Bottom Line

Tips

Interactions

Further Information