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. Docusate is often used when straining to have a bowel movement should be avoided (such as 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. Relief is usually seen in 1 to 3 days with this medication.Check the ingredients on the label even if you have used the product before.
Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away. Store at room temperature away from moisture, light, and heat. 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. Drink plenty of liquids while you are using docusate.
Other medical uses
Do not flush medications down 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 pharmacist or how long does molly stay in your hair local waste disposal company. Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
What Can Constipation be a Sign Of?
- The effects of docusate are thought to be exerted locally in the jejunum1.
- Dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate is of low toxicity for crustaceans such as the hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus and the shrimp Crangon crangon.
- Do not use this medicine without a doctor’s advice if you are pregnant.
- Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.
- If you are taking the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read and follow all directions on the product package before taking this medication.
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. It is not known whether docusate will harm an unborn baby. whats an enabler Do not use this medicine without a doctor’s advice if you are pregnant.
Once you’re in the routine of taking Colace® daily, your poops may become consistently easier to pass. You’ll probably be able to predict how long it’ll take to work. Note that this list is not all-inclusive and includes only common medications that may interact with docusate. You should refer to the prescribing information for docusate for a complete list of interactions. If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
If you feel like you need to take it for longer than that, contact a healthcare provider. Stool softeners can help treat occasional does alcohol bother gallbladder constipation, but your provider might have different recommendations for treating persistent or chronic constipation. Check with your doctor or health care provider if you have any questions about the medication. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, measure the dose carefully using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.
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DOCUSATE (doc CUE sayt) prevents and treats occasional constipation. It works by softening the stool, making it easier to have a bowel movement. It belongs to a group of medications called laxatives. Medicines that interact with docusate may either decrease its effect, affect how long it works, increase side effects, or have less of an effect when taken with docusate. An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of the medications; however, sometimes it does. Speak to your doctor about how drug interactions should be managed.
Generic Name(S): docusate sodium
But it’s only meant to be a temporary solution, and constipation during pregnancy can be a recurring issue. If you regularly experience constipation during pregnancy, talk to your healthcare provider about how to treat it long-term. Talk to your care team regarding the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years for selected conditions precautions do apply. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. The drug interactions listed above are not all of the possible interactions or adverse effects.