Indications
PO: Prevention of constipation (in patients who should
avoid straining, such as after MI or rectal surgery).
Rect: Used as enema to soften fecal impaction.
Action
Promotes incorporation of water into stool, resulting in
softer fecal mass. May also promote electrolyte and water
secretion into the colon. Therapeutic Effects:
Softening and passage of stool.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Small amounts may be absorbed from
the small intestine after oral administration. Absorption
from the rectum is not known.
Distribution: Unknown.
Metabolism and Excretion: Amounts absorbed
after oral administration are eliminated in bile.
Half-life: Unknown.
TIME/ACTION PROFILE (softening of stool)
ROUTE ONSET PEAK DURATION
PO 12–72 hr unknown unknown
Rectal 2–15 min unknown unknown
Contraindications/Precautions
Contraindicated in: Hypersensitivity; Abdominal
pain, nausea, or vomiting, especially when associated
with fever or other signs of an acute abdomen.
Use Cautiously in: Excessive or prolonged use may
lead to dependence; Should not be used if prompt results
are desired; OB, Lactation: Has been used safely.
Adverse Reactions/Side Effects
EENT: throat irritation. GI: mild cramps, diarrhea.
Derm: rashes.
Interactions
Drug-Drug: None significant.
Route/Dosage
Docusate Calcium
PO (Adults): 240 mg once daily.
Docusate Sodium
PO (Adults and Children 12 yr): 50–400 mg in
1–4 divided doses.
PO (Children 6–12 yr): 40–150 mg in 1–4 divided
doses.
PO (Children 3–6 yr): 20–60 mg in 1–4 divided
doses.
PO (Children 3 yr): 10–40 mg in 1–4 divided
doses.
PO (Infants): 5 mg/kg/day in 1–4 divided doses.
Rect (Adults): 50–100 mg or 1 unit containing 283
mg docusate sodium, soft soap, and glycerin.
Availability (generic available)
Docusate Calcium
Capsules: 240 mgOTC.
Docusate Sodium (generic available)
Tablets: 100 mgOTC. Capsules: 50 mgOTC, 100 mgOTC,
250 mgOTC. Syrup: 20 mg/5 mLOTC. Liquid: 50 mg/5
mLOTC. Enema: 283 mg/5 mLOTC. In combination
with: stimulant laxativesOTC. See Appendix B.
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