docusate

Do not use docusate if you have stomach (abdominal) pain, nausea, or vomiting, unless directed by doctor.

Do not take mineral oil or aspirin while taking docusate, unless otherwise directed by your health care provider.

Docusate is a stool softener. It makes stools softer and easier to pass.

Docusate is used to treat constipation due to hard stools, in painful anorectal conditions, and for people who should avoid straining during bowel movements.

Docusate may also have uses other than those listed in this product guide.

Do not take docusate without first talking to your doctor if you have

• an inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis,
• other intestinal problems, or
• abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.

You may not be able to take docusate or you may require special monitoring while taking docusate if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Do not take docusate without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant.

Do not take docusate without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Some forms of docusate are formulated for use by children. Talk to the child's doctor before using this product to treat a child.

Take docusate exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

Docusate is available in tablet and capsule formulations. Swallow the tablets and capsules whole. Do not chew or crush them.

Docusate is also available in liquid form. To ensure that you get the correct dosage, measure docusate with a dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one. Mix the liquid with 6 to 8 ounces of milk, fruit juice, or infant formula and drink immediately.

Docusate is also available for use as a rectal enema. To use a rectal enema:

• Shake the bottle gently to make sure the suspension is mixed. Remove the protective cap from the applicator tip. Holding the bottle at the neck will not cause any of the medication to come out.
• Gently insert the tip into the rectum, pointing toward the belly button (umbilicus). A steady squeezing of the bottle will discharge most of the medication.

The effect on stools is usually apparent 1 to 3 days after the first dose of docusate. Do not take docusate for more than 1 week unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Store docusate at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. It is not necessary to take a double dose.

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a docusate overdose are not known but might include nausea, vomiting or stomach pain.

Do not take mineral oil or aspirin while taking docusate, unless otherwise directed by your health care provider.

If you experience any of the following uncommon but serious side effects, stop taking docusate and seek medical treatment or call your doctor immediately:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
• rectal bleeding;
• severe abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting; or
• no bowel movement.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take docusate and talk to your doctor if you experience

• a bitter taste or throat irritation;
• skin rash;
• diarrhea; or
• mild nausea.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Before taking docusate, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

• any prescription medicines;
• aspirin or products that contain aspirin; or
• mineral oil.

You may not be able to take docusate, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with docusate, and docusate may affect the actions of many other medicines, including the ones listed above. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Your pharmacist has more information about docusate written for health professionals that you may read.

Docusate is available over-the-counter generically and under many brand names in several formulations. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.