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Drug

Docusate

Pronounced

"DOCK-you-sate"

Uses

This product is used to treat occasional constipation. Docusate is a stool softener. It works by increasing the amount of water the stool absorbs in the gut, making the stool softer and easier to pass. This product usually results in a bowel movement within 2 to 15 minutes.

Check the ingredients on the label even if you have used the product before. The manufacturer may have changed the ingredients. Also, products with similar names may contain different ingredients meant for different purposes. Using the wrong product could harm you.

How to Use This Medication

This product is for rectal use only. If you are using the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read and follow all directions on the product package before using this medication. If you have any questions, consult your pharmacist. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, use it as directed.

Wash your hands before and after using this product. Twist and remove the tip. Lubricate the tip of the bottle and the rectum with lubricant or the liquid before inserting. Lie on your left side with knee bent. Instead, if you find it more comfortable, you may kneel, then lower your head and chest forward until the left side of the face is resting on a surface with your left arm folded comfortably. You may also administer it while seated on the toilet. With steady pressure, gently insert enema tip into the rectum up to the shoulder of the tube with a slight side-to-side movement, pointing the tip toward the navel. Do not force the enema tip into the rectum because doing so can cause injury. Squeeze the tube until nearly all of the liquid is inside the rectum. A small amount of liquid may remain in the tube after use. Remove the single-use tube from the rectum and discard properly.

Use this medication only when needed. Do not use this product for more than 1 week unless directed by your doctor.

The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than directed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.

If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

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RxAnswers™ is a copyrighted combined product from TraceGains and First DataBank, Inc.

Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

This information is intended only for residents of the United States. Products sold under the same brand names in other countries may contain different ingredients.

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Information expires December 2025.