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ALIMENTARY TRACT AND METABOLISM › DRUGS FOR CONSTIPATION › DRUGS FOR CONSTIPATION › Enemas
docusate sodium, incl. combinations
A06AG10
Forms & Strengths
- Capsules: 50 mg, 100 mg, 250 mg
- Liquid: 50 mg/5 mL
- Syrup: 60 mg/15 mL
- Drops: 10 mg/mL
- Enema: 283 mg/5 mL (often combined with benzocaine or other agents)
- Combination oral formulations with senna or casanthranol
Adult Dosing
- Oral: 50 mg to 300 mg daily in divided doses
- Rectal (enema): 283 mg as a single dose as needed
Pediatric Dosing
- Children 0-2 years: 10 to 40 mg daily in divided doses (oral)
- Children 2-12 years: 50 to 150 mg daily in divided doses (oral)
- Children >12 years: 50 to 300 mg daily in divided doses (oral)
Indications
- Short-term treatment of occasional constipation
- Prevention of straining during defecation (e.g., post-myocardial infarction, post-anorectal surgery)
- Preparation for bowel procedures when combined with other agents
Mechanism of Action
- Anionic surfactant that acts as a stool softener
- Lowers surface tension of stool at the oil-water interface
- Allows water and fats to penetrate and mix into the fecal mass, softening the stool and facilitating easier passage
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to docusate sodium or any formulation component
- Symptoms of appendicitis, intestinal obstruction, or undiagnosed abdominal pain
- Nausea, vomiting, or other signs of acute abdomen
- Concomitant use with mineral oil
Adverse Reactions
- Mild abdominal cramping
- Diarrhea
- Throat irritation (with liquid/syrup formulations)
- Rash (rare hypersensitivity)
Drug Interactions
- Mineral oil: Docusate increases the absorption of mineral oil, potentially leading to hepatic and intestinal accumulation
- Aspirin: Concurrent use may increase mucosal damage of the gastrointestinal tract
- Anthraquinone laxatives: May have additive or synergistic effects
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use