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Docu Liquid (docusate sodium)

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Last reviewed · Source: First Databank (FDB) drug data

Overview

The calcium and sodium salts of docusate are anionic, surface-active agents (surfactants) that have emulsifying and wetting properties and are used as stool softeners.

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.

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. The manufacturer may have changed the ingredients.

Also, products with similar names may contain different ingredients meant for different purposes. Taking the wrong product could harm you.

Generic name: docusate sodium
Pronunciation: (DOCK-you-sate)

Reference product & biosimilars

No reference, biosimilar or interchangeable associated with this drug.

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Indications

The following indications are listed for Docu Liquid:

  • Constipation

Dosing

Docusate salts should be administered in doses only large enough to produce softening of the stools. The oral dosage of the docusate salts varies widely according to the severity of the condition and the response of the patient and should be adjusted to individual response.

The usual oral dosage of docusate salts in adults and children older than 12 years of age is 50-360 mg daily. The usual oral dosage is 50-150 mg daily in children 2-12 years of age and 25 mg daily in children younger than 2 years of age. Alternatively, children 3-6 years of age may receive oral docusate sodium dosages of 20-60 mg daily and children younger than 3 years of age may receive 10-40 mg daily. Doses at the higher end of these dosage ranges may be required initially. The drugs may be administered in divided doses but usually one bedtime dose is sufficient. One manufacturer suggests adding 50-100 mg of docusate sodium as an oral liquid (not syrup) to saline or oil retention enemas for rectal use.

Drug interactions

There is no enhanced messaging for this drug.

Contraindications

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Adverse reactions

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Precautions

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ICD codes

No ICD codes are available for this drug.

Formulary status

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Last reviewed · Source: First Databank (FDB) drug data