Medication guide
Docusate Sodium
- Generic name
- Docusate Sodium
- Common brand names
- Colace, Surfak
- Medication class
- Stool softener/lubricant
Overview
Its medication class is Stool softener/lubricant. Common uses include Prevent constipation when stool hardening is expected. Product forms and labels can differ, so follow the specific package instructions and ask a pharmacist or qualified healthcare professional about individual questions.
How to Take it
- Route
- Oral stimulant/stool-softening laxative.
- Time of day
- Prefer evening or before travel/known delayed bowel days.
- With food/water
- Take with full water dose; do not take on empty stomach in low-hydration states.
- Preparation
- Swallow complete tablets/capsules unless liquid is specified.
- Safe dose
- Lowest effective single dose first.
- Max dose
- Stay within label and do not use >7 days without review unless labeled.
- Frequency
- Usually once daily, some products 1–2x/day.
- Other recommendations
- Stop and seek care with severe pain, no stool, or blood with stool.
Common uses
- Prevent constipation when stool hardening is expected
Common side effects
- Mild diarrhea
- abdominal cramping
- nausea
- flatulence
- and stomach discomfort
Important warnings
- Not for severe constipation from neurologic, endocrine, or obstructive causes without evaluation. Not for pediatric use without specific dosing instructions. Avoid if rectal bleeding, unrelenting abdominal pain, or suspected obstruction signs occur.
General interactions information
May reduce absorption of fat-soluble vitamins in some contexts
Sources / references
- Stool Softeners — MedlinePlus
U.S. National Library of Medicine
These references offer further reading. A source link does not establish that a clinician has reviewed every statement in this guide.
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