docusate (OTC)

Frequency Not Defined

Abdominal cramping

Diarrhea

Excessive bowel activity

Intestinal obstruction

Throat irritation

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity

Intestinal obstruction, symptoms of appendicitis or acute abdominal pain, fecal impaction

Concomitant use of mineral oil

Nausea or vomiting

Use for longer than 7 days when self-medicating

Cautions

Electrolyte imbalance may occur with excessive use

Excessive use may result in dependence

Enema is for rectal use only; lubricate prior to insertion; discontinue use and notify health care professional if irritation occurs around the anus/rectal or if resistance is encountered with insertion; injury or damage to the rectum can occur if tube forced

Prior to OTC use, patient should contact healthcare professional if stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting are present, or if a sudden change in bowel habits occurs and persists over 14 days

Patient should discontinue use and notify healthcare professional if bleeding occurs, if bowel movement fails to occur after use, or need to continue use after using for 7 days

Pregnancy category: C

Lactation: Unknown whether drug is excreted in milk; compatible with nursing

Pregnancy Categories

A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.

B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.

C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.

D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.

X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.

NA: Information not available.

Mechanism of Action

Surfactant laxative, reduces tension of oil-water interface of the stool; enhances incorporation of water and fat into stool, causing stool to soften

Absorption

Onset: 24-72 hr

Elimination

Excretion: Feces