Docusate, also known as docusate salts or dioctyl sulfosuccinate, is a laxative used to treat constipation. It is considered a good choice in children who have hard feces. For constipation due to the use of opiates it may be used with a stimulant laxative. It can be taken by mouth or rectally. Usually it works in one to three days.
Side effects are uncommon. Rarely there may be abdominal cramps or diarrhea. Long term use may cause poor bowel function. Docusate is acceptable during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is a laxative of the stool softener type and works by allowing more water to be absorbed by the feces. It typically comes in the form of a sodium, calcium, or potassium salts.
It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most important medications needed in a basic health system. It is available as a generic medication and is not very expensive. In the United States one hundred doses are about 14 USD. Dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate is also used as a food additive, emulsifier, dispersant, and wetting agent, among others.
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