How does it work?
Both adult and pediatric Docusol solutions contain the same active ingredient docusate sodium, which is a laxative.
Docusate works in two ways to relieve constipation. First, is a stool-softening activity. It lowers the surface tension of hard and dry stools that have accumulated in the intestine, which helps water to penetrate them. This makes the stools softer and easier to pass, reducing stress. This can be extremely helpful to people with hemorrhoids (piles) or anal fissures.
Docusate also has a stimulating effect on the gut. It acts on the nerve endings walls of the large intestine (colon) and rectum, causing the muscles of the intestinal wall to fall more frequently and powerfully. When these muscles contract (a process known as peristalsis), this moves through the intestinal contents of the colon to the rectum to empty the bowel.
The dual action is effective in relieving constipation without straining. The solution usually provides relief from constipation in one to two days.
Docusol solution can also be used to empty the bowels before abdominal radiological procedures (X-rays, eg with barium meal).
What is Docusol used for?
* Prevent and treat chronic constipation.
* Softening stools in people suffering from hemorrhoids (piles) or an anal fissure, reduced force and make stools easier to pass.
* Emptying the bowel prior to abdominal radiological procedures (X-rays, eg with barium meal).
Warning!
* Prolonged use of this drug should be avoided. If symptoms persist, you should use a laxative every day, or if you have persistent abdominal pain, consult your doctor.
Do not use if any of the following applies to you:
* People with nausea, vomiting or persistent abdominal pain.
* People with an obstruction of the bowel (bowel obstruction).
Docusol should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy.
If you feel you have had an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Some drugs should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Other medicines may be safely used during pregnancy or breast-feeding provides a benefit to the mother outweigh the risks to the fetus. Always tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before taking any medicine.
* The safety of this drug during pregnancy has not been fully elucidated, although it has been widely used for many years was not reported adverse effects. Like all medicines, seek medical advice from your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant.
* This medication may pass into breast milk. Must be used with caution during lactation. Like all medicines, you should consult a medical doctor before taking this medicine if you are breastfeeding.
Side Effects
Medicines and their possible side effects can affect people in different ways. The following are some side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. As a side effect is stated here does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.
* Diarrhea
* Nausea
* Abdominal cramps
* Rash
The side effects listed above may not include all side effects reported by the manufacturer.
For more information on other possible risks associated with the product, please read the information with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.
How can this medicine affect other medicines?
If you are already taking other medications, including non-prescription supplements or herbs, you should consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking this drug also, make sure that the combination is safe.
You may not use Docusol while using laxatives containing liquid paraffin (mineral oil).