Docusate (Dioctyl) 100mg Capsules

What is Docusate Sodium?

Docusate Sodium is a laxative that is used to ease constipation in children and adults over the age of 12 years. It is what is known as a stool softener rather than a stimulant laxative, working more gently inside the body by drawing fluid into the hard, dry stools to make them larger, softer and easier to pass.

Each pack of Docusate Sodium contains 100 soft capsules taken up to five times a day to offer relief within 48 hours.

What is Docusate Sodium used for?

Docusate Sodium capsules are a stool-softening laxative that draws water into the hard stool to make it easier and less painful to pass.

Docusate is primarily used to prevent and treat constipation, however, can also be used to help you go to the toilet if you have:

• Piles (haemorrhoids)
• Anal tears or fissures

If you are noticing that you are struggling with constipation long-term or you are having recurrent episodes, it is a good idea to discuss this with a doctor.

It is also recommended that anyone who suffers from constipation make the following lifestyle changes:

• Increase fibre in your diet
• Drink more water
• Try to increase your daily exercise
• Do not ignore the urge to go to the toilet

How does Docusate Sodium work?

Docusate Sodium is the active ingredient in each capsule. It works as a laxative by softening and increasing the volume of hard, dry stools through the process of drawing fluid from the body into the stool, making them easier to pass.

It is essential that when taking Docusate you increase your fluid intake to avoid becoming dehydrated. Drinking more water will also be beneficial in easing constipation.

Alternatives to Docusate Sodium

At The Independent Pharmacy, we recognise that constipation is a common complaint causing many people to feel abdominal discomfort that affects the quality of their daily life.

We, therefore, offer an extensive range of treatment options:

• Stool softening laxative - DulcoEase
• Stimulant laxatives - Senokot, Dulcolax, Dulcolax Pico
• Osmotic laxatives - Lactulose, Cosmo-col, Movicol, Laxido
• Bulk-forming laxatives - Fybogel
• Suppositories or enemas - Micralax, Cleen, Dulcolax Suppositories

Some people may find that they have a preference for one type of laxative over another or that one laxative is more suitable for them due to their individual needs. If you are unsure which laxative is most appropriate for your needs you should discuss this with a pharmacist or doctor.

Sources

• Docusate Sodium Patient Information Leaflet: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/6218/pil
• https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/docusate/
• https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/constipation/

Docusate Sodium warnings

• Do not take this medicine if any of the following apply to you: you are suffering from stomach pain, feel sick or have been sick in the last 24 hours or you have a blocked bowel.
• Speak to a doctor or pharmacist before taking Docusate if you are needing to take a laxative every day.
• If you are currently taking or have recently stopped taking any other form of medication that has been prescribed or not you should speak to a doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Please read the Patient Information Leaflet carefully before taking this medicine.

Docusate Sodium in pregnancy & breastfeeding

Constipation in pregnancy is a common problem. If you are suffering from constipation at this time you should speak to a doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medication.

Docusate Sodium dosage

Docusate Sodium is suitable for the prevention and treatment of constipation in children and adults over the age of 12 years.

For oral use only, take a maximum of 5 capsules evenly spread throughout the day with a drink of water. As your condition improves you should decrease how many capsules you take in 24 hours.

Please ensure you have read the Patient Information Leaflet thoroughly before using this medicine.

Docusate Sodium ingredients

The active ingredient in each capsule is: Docusate Sodium 100 mg.

The other ingredients are: macrogol 400, propylene glycol, gelatin 175 bloom, glycerol, sorbitol, titanium dioxide (E171), quinoline yellow (E104), sunset yellow (E110), lecithin, isopropyl alcohol and medium-chain triglycerides.

Before taking any new medication you must read the Patient Information Leaflet thoroughly.

Docusate Sodium side effects

Taking Docusate Sodium, like other laxatives, can occasionally cause some people to experience side effects. If you are worried about side effects you should speak to a doctor or pharmacist for advice.

The most commons side effects include:

• Feeling sick
• Diarrhoea
• Stomach aches or cramps

If you experience any severe side effects or an allergic reaction that makes it difficult to breathe or you develop facial swelling you must seek immediate medical help.

Before taking any medication you must read the Patient Information Leaflet thoroughly.