Docusate oral / rectal

You should not use docusate if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• nausea, vomiting, or severe stomach pain;

• a blockage in your intestines; or

• chronic stomach pain that has not been checked by a doctor.

You should not take mineral oil while using docusate.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take docusate:

• if you are on a low-salt diet; or

• if you have recently had a sudden change in your bowel habits lasting for longer than 2 weeks.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether docusate will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether docusate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 6 years old without the advice of a doctor.

Avoid using laxatives or other stool softeners unless your doctor has told you to.

Other drugs may interact with docusate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Applies to docusate: compounding powder, oral capsule, oral liquid, oral syrup, oral tablet, rectal enema

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects have included gastrointestinal cramping. Reports of bitter taste and throat irritation have been reported with administration of primarily the syrup and liquid formulations.[Ref]

Dermatologic

Dermatologic side effects have included rash.[Ref]

Metabolic

Metabolic side effects have included at least one case report of hypomagnesemia.[Ref]

Metabolic abnormalities reported include hypomagnesemia in one woman who took docusate chronically throughout her pregnancy. Magnesium levels returned to normal following discontinuation of docusate.[Ref]

Some side effects of docusate may not be reported. Always consult your doctor or healthcare specialist for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA.

• May be taken with or without food.
• Take docusate capsules with a full glass of water. Take extra fluids throughout the day to help the effectiveness of docusate.
• Do not take more docusate than recommended or take for longer than the recommended time.
• Talk to your doctor before taking if you have any stomach pain, nausea or vomiting, or have experienced a sudden change in bowel motions that have persisted for longer than two weeks.
• Talk to your doctor if you experience any rectal bleeding, or if you fail to have a bowel movement after taking docusate for several days. A bowel movement usually occurs within one to three days of taking docusate.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do not use docusate until you have spoken with your doctor.
• Store docusate away from heat, moisture, and light (do not store in the bathroom). Keep out of reach of children and pets.