What docusate is for
Docusate can be used:
- to treat constipation (difficulty pooing), such as not pooing very often or having poo that's dry and hard
- if you have a condition when it helps if your poo is soft or you can poo more easily, like piles or an anal fissure
- to empty your bowel before some tests or procedures
Docusate is a type of laxative called a stool softener. Stool softeners work by allowing more water into your poo. This makes the poo softer and easier to push out.
It may also help trigger the muscles in your bowel to move poo along.
Docusate also comes as ear drops used to help soften and remove ear wax.
How to take docusate
Docusate comes as capsules or a liquid (oral solution) that you swallow, and as a gel that you put in your bottom (enema).
It usually starts to work within 1 to 2 days if you're swallowing it. It works more quickly if you use an enema, usually within 20 minutes.
How much you need to take and for how long depends on why you're taking it. Always follow the advice your doctor or pharmacist gives you.
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated if you're taking docusate capsules or liquid for constipation.
How to take or use different types of docusate
Always check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine. Ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice if you're not sure how to take it or have any problems taking it.
Important
See a doctor for advice if you've taken docusate capsules or liquid for more than a few days and your symptoms have not improved or have got worse.
If you miss a dose of docusate
If forget to take a dose of docusate, take it as soon as you remember unless it's nearly time for your next dose.
If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take your next dose at the usual time.
Do not take 2 doses to make up for a missed one.
If you take too much docusate
Taking an extra dose of docusate is unlikely to cause problems, but it's important to get medical advice if you take too much and feel unwell.
Urgent advice: Speak to a pharmacist as soon as possible if:
- you've taken more docusate than it says on the packet, leaflet or prescription and have symptoms such as being sick (vomiting), diarrhoea or bloating, or you feel dizzy and weak
If you're unable to speak to a pharmacist or you took too much of your medicine on purpose, call NHS 111 for advice.
Find a pharmacySide effects of docusate
Like all medicines, docusate can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.
Common side effects
- diarrhoea
- stomach cramps
- feeling sick (nausea)
- a burning feeling in your mouth or throat, if you're using the liquid medicine – drinking water after taking it can help
- soreness or irritation around your bottom, if you're using an enema
Non-urgent advice: Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if:
- you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away
They may be able to give you advice about how to reduce any side effects or may suggest reducing your dose.
Find a pharmacySerious side effects
Docusate can sometimes cause serious side effects, although most of them are rare.
Possible serious side effects of docusate include:
- a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) – causing symptoms such as a swollen throat or tongue, a raised itchy rash and difficulty breathing
- low potassium in your blood – causing symptoms such as muscle weakness, tiredness, needing to pee a lot and heart rhythm problems (this can happen if you have frequent diarrhoea from taking docusate for a long time)
Immediate action required: Call 999 if:
- you're taking docusate and think you might be having anaphylaxis
If you think you're having any other serious side effect, call NHS 111.
More about serious side effects
These are not all the side effects of docusate.
For a full list, see the leaflet that comes with your medicine or search for your medicine leaflet on the electronic medicines compendium website.
You can report any side effects you get on the Yellow Card website
Who can and cannot take docusate
Most adults and children aged 6 months and over can take docusate.
But docusate is not suitable for everyone. For example, it may not be suitable if:
- you have ever had an allergic reaction or serious side effect from docusate or another laxative
- you have stomach pain without a cause
- you feel sick or have been sick in the last 24 hours
- you have a blockage in your bowel that is not from constipation
- you're using a docusate enema and have inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
Do not use a docusate enema if you have piles (haemorrhoids), bleeding, sores or tears around your bottom.
Check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine to see if it's suitable for you or your child. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're not sure if you can take it.
Breastfeeding and docusate
Docusate can usually be used while breastfeeding.
It's rare for breastfed babies to get any side effects from medicine you're taking, but speak to a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your baby.
Pregnancy and docusate
You can usually take docusate if you're pregnant, but it's best to speak to a pharmacist or doctor first.
Taking docusate with other medicines, food and drink
There are some medicines, remedies and supplements that may not mix well with docusate.
Speak to a doctor of pharmacist if you're also taking another laxative, such as senna. They may suggest you change your dose.
Before you take docusate, check the packet or leaflet that comes with the medicine to see if it's suitable for you. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're not sure if you can take it.
Food, drink and alcohol with docusate
You can eat and drink as normal when taking docusate.
Drink plenty of fluids while taking docusate for constipation. This helps stop constipation getting worse.
Find out more about your medicine
To find out more about your medicine, you can:
- check the leaflet that comes with it
- search for your medicine leaflet on the electronic medicines compendium website
- speak to a pharmacist for advice