If you are having problems excreting your stools, you can always seek comfort from the power of laxatives. Laxatives are foods, drugs, and compounds that can make the stool softer. They are classified according to their main sites of action. Bulking agents, for example, include dietary fiber which aids in better digestion. Lubricants, on the other hand, work in the colon providing it with some oil to make the stool slippery. There are also laxatives as hydrating agents, which basically helps the intestine retain more water to soften the stool. Stimulant laxatives, meanwhile, induce bowel movement forcibly by acting on the intestinal mucosa. Then there are also surfactants, which primarily works by helping water and fats penetrate the stool so it comes out easier.
Docusate is an example of a surfactant laxative. It is a generic drug that is available worldwide under the brand names Colace and Surfak. The most common use of Docusate is to treat constipation. It is also used by people who have painful rectal conditions such as hemorrhoids and by people who needs to avoid straining while releasing their bowels.
Before using Docusate as a bowel relief, you must first consult your doctor about it. Certain conditions like chronic stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting must be noted by your doctor because Docusate may aggravate such symptoms. If you have an existing intestinal problem or bowel disease, you might be forbidden to take the drug.
Docusate is available in tablet, capsule, syrup and rectal enema. It is taken orally usually for a short period of time, at least not more than a week. The effect of Docusate can be felt between one to three days of continued use. As with any medications, Docusate must be taken exactly as directed. If you missed a dose, you must take it as soon as you remember it. But if it is too close to your next dosing schedule, you may discard the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Docusate is unsafe to be taken with Aspirin and mineral oil because drug interactions are likely to occur. Patients taking prescription drugs that may counteract the effects of Docusate shall be given a dosage adjustment. They are also closely monitored for any unsightly effects.
If you are sure that you have followed the necessary precautions, there is no need to worry about side effects. Docusate unlikely causes side effects. If you experience breathing difficulty, rectal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, and no bowel movement, you must rush to your doctor. Such symptoms are signs of serious side effects that must be treated immediately.
If you are giving Docusate to young children, be careful with the dosage. Some forms are especially formulated for children. You must know the right kind and the right amount of intake to be safe.
Remember, Docusate is intended only for short-term use. If your symptoms persist or worsen even after you have finished the required dosage, consult your doctor. He would either prescribe another medicine or examine you for the occurrence of other conditions.
Docusate has the following structural formula:
• Molecular formula of docusate is C20H37NaO7S
• Molecular weight is 444.56 g/mol
• Docusate available : 100mg tablets
Brand name(s): Aqualax, Calube, Colace, Dialose, Diocto, Dioctocal, Dioctosoftez, Dioctyn, Dionex, Docu Soft, Docucal, Doculax, Docusoft S, Genasoft, Kasof, Regulax SS, Sulfalax Calcium
Review published on: 23 April 2008
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