| Name | Docusate Sodium |
| Classes |
Gastrointestinal Agent Laxatives |
| Diseases |
Constipation Gastrointestinal Disease |
Bangla
EnglishDocusate Sodium
Docusate sodium is a medication that is used to treat constipation. It is a stool softener that works by increasing the water content in the stool, making it easier to pass. Docusate sodium is also known by the brand name Colace, and it is available in various forms such as oral tablets, capsules, and rectal suppositories.
Docusate sodium is indicated for the treatment of constipation.
The recommended dosage of docusate sodium varies depending on the individual and the form of the medication. The usual adult dosage for oral tablets and capsules is 50-300mg taken orally twice a day. For rectal suppositories, the usual adult dosage is 100-200mg taken rectally once a day.
Pediatrics:
- Infants under 2 years old: Not recommended
- Children 2-6 years old: 50-100mg taken orally twice a day
- Children 7-12 years old: 100-200mg taken orally twice a day
- Children over 12 years old: The adult dosage of 100-200mg taken orally twice a daily.
The most common side effects of docusate sodium include:
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Flatulence
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
These side effects are usually mild and temporary. They usually go away within a few days of starting the medication or after adjusting the dosage.
- Consult with a healthcare professional before starting or adjusting the dosage of docusate sodium.
- Inform your healthcare provider of any pre-existing conditions, allergies, or medications you are currently taking.
- Do not exceed the recommended dosage. Overuse of docusate sodium may lead to diarrhea, which can be dangerous in some people, particularly in older adults or those with underlying health conditions.
- Do not use docusate sodium for more than one week without consulting a healthcare professional.
- If you experience rectal bleeding, stomach pain, or blood in the stool, stop using docusate sodium and seek medical attention immediately.
- Docusate sodium may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, so it is important to inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are currently taking.
- Docusate sodium is not recommended for use in infants under 2 years old.
- Docusate sodium is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding without consulting a healthcare professional.
Contraindication
Docusate sodium is contraindicated in people with known hypersensitivity to the medication or any of its components.
None known.
- Docusate sodium is contraindicated in people with an obstruction in the gastrointestinal tract, such as a bowel obstruction or fecal impaction.
- Docusate sodium is contraindicated in people with rectal bleeding of unknown origin.
- Docusate sodium is contraindicated in people with inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.
