Docusate - Benefits, dosage and side effects

Docusate is a drug to treat constipation or difficult bowel movements. This drug belongs to the group of laxatives or laxatives.

Hard stools can make it difficult to pass stool. Docusate works by inhibiting the absorption of water and fat back from the stool, so that the stool that was previously hard becomes softer and easier to expel.

docusate trademark: Bufiron, Laxatab, Neolaxa

What is Docusate

groupFree medicine
CategoryPurgative
BenefitOvercoming constipation or constipation
Consumed byAdults and children
Docusate for pregnant and lactating mothersCategory C:Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women.

Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus.

Docusate is not known to be absorbed into breast milk or not. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without consulting your doctor first.

Drug formTablets, capsules

Warning Before Taking Docusate

Although it is included in the category of over-the-counter drugs, there are several things you should pay attention to before taking docusate, namely:

  • Do not take docusate if you are allergic to this drug. Tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
  • Tell your doctor if you have or have recently had intestinal obstruction, colitis, or sudden abdominal pain. Docusate should not be given to patients with this condition.
  • Talk to your doctor about using docusate if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
  • Talk to your doctor about using docusate if you are taking certain medications, supplements or herbal products,
  • See your doctor immediately if you experience a drug allergic reaction, overdose, or serious side effect after taking docusate.

Docusate Dosage and Use Rules

The docusate dose will be given by the doctor according to the patient's condition. In general, the dose of docusate to treat constipation in adults is 50–300 mg per day, divided into several consumption schedules. If needed, the dose can be increased to 500 mg per day.

How to Use Docusate Correctly

Always follow the doctor's advice and read the instructions on the medicine package before using docusate.

Docusate tablets should be taken before bed with the help of a full glass of water. Reduce your dose or stop using the drug if you experience diarrhea after taking this medicine.

Docusate is only to be consumed in the short term. Long-term use of docusate can inhibit the work of the intestines in stimulating the elimination of feces. See your doctor immediately if you are still constipated 5 days after taking docusate.

To prevent constipation, you can eat foods high in fiber, such as green vegetables or fruits. You also need to drink about 6-8 glasses of water a day. In addition, exercising regularly can also prevent constipation.

Store docusate at room temperature, in a dry place, and away from direct sunlight. Keep docusate out of reach of children.

Docusate Interactions with Other Drugs

The following are the effects of interactions that may occur if docusate is used with certain drugs:

  • Increased absorptionmineral oil
  • Increased effectiveness of the drug phenolphthalein
  • Increased risk of gastrointestinal side effects when used with aspirin

Side Effects and Dangers of Docusate

Side effects that can occur after taking docusate are stomach cramps, stomach pain, or diarrhea. Check with your doctor if these side effects don't go away or get worse. See your doctor right away if you have an allergic reaction to the drug or a serious side effect, such as bleeding in the rectum.