Medications and Drugs

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Brand Names: Colace, Correctol Softgel Extra Gentle, Diocto, Doc-Q-Lace, Docu Soft, Docusoft S, DOK, DOS, DSS, Fleet Sof-Lax, Genasoft, Kasof, Sur-Q-Lax

Generic Name: docusate (Pronunciation: DOK ue sate)

• What is docusate (Colace, Correctol Softgel Extra Gentle, Diocto, Doc-Q-Lace, Docu Soft, Docusoft S, DOK, DOS, DSS, Fleet Sof-Lax, Genasoft, Kasof, Sur-Q-Lax)?
• What are the possible side effects of docusate?
• What is the most important information I should know about docusate?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using docusate?
• How should I use docusate?
• What happens if I miss a dose?
• What happens if I overdose?
• What should I avoid while using docusate?
• What other drugs will affect docusate?
• Where can I get more information?

What is docusate (Colace, Correctol Softgel Extra Gentle, Diocto, Doc-Q-Lace, Docu Soft, Docusoft S, DOK, DOS, DSS, Fleet Sof-Lax, Genasoft, Kasof, Sur-Q-Lax)?

Docusate is a stool softener. It makes bowel movements softer and easier to pass.

Docusate is used to treat constipation, and to reduce pain or rectal damage caused by hard stools or by straining during bowel movements.

Docusate may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

DC-240 mg

oblong, red, imprinted with P58

Docusate 100 mg-WAT

red, imprinted with 7112

Docusate Sodium 100 mg-UDL

red, imprinted with P51

Stool Softener 100 mg-ALT

oval, red/white, imprinted with L486

What are the possible side effects of docusate?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using docusate and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• rectal bleeding;
• severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting; or
• no bowel movement.

Less serious side effects may include:

• a bitter taste or throat irritation;
• skin rash;
• diarrhea; or
• mild nausea.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about docusate?

Before using docusate, tell your doctor if you have an intestinal disorder such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, or stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.

Do not take mineral oil or aspirin while using docusate, unless otherwise directed by your health care provider.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse after using this medicine for 1 to 3 days.