Describe Colace:
Colace is a generic name is docusate sodium. Colace is a stool softener. It makes bowel movements softer and easier to pass. It is used to treat or prevent occasional constipation and to reduce pain or rectal damage caused by straining during bowel movements. It may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
How does it work?
Colace (docusate) is a stool softener. It draws water and fat into your stool to make it softer, which helps it move easier through your gut. This relieves constipation. It may take 6-12 hours before this medication causes a bowel movement. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse, or if bleeding from the rectum occurs. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.
Uses
If you are taking an over-the-counter product to self-treat, read and follow all the directions on the product package before taking this medication. If you have any questions, consult your pharmacist. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, take it as directed.
Take this medication by mouth, usually at bedtime with a full glass (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) of water or juice, or as directed by your doctor. Use this medication only when needed. Do not use this product for more than 1 week unless directed by your doctor.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Colace if you are allergic to docusate. Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have:
Nausea;
Vomiting; or
A sudden change in bowel movements that lasts over two weeks.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.
Dosage
Adult (> 12 years ): The recommended oral dose is 50 to 500 mg/day in 1 to 4 divided doses. The recommended rectal dose is 50 to 100 mg of docusate liquid added to enema fluid.
Pediatric: the recommended dose for infants and children <3 years is 10 to 40 mg/day in 1 to 4 divided doses. The recommended dose in children between the ages of 3 to 6 is 20 to 60 mg/day in 1 to 4 divided doses. The recommended dose in children between the ages of 6 to 12 is 40 to 150 mg/day in 1 to 4 divided doses.
Side effects
Docusate salts rarely cause side effects since they are not absorbed into the body. Occasional side effects may include:
Diarrhea
Intestinal obstruction, and
Excessive use of Colace may cause low electrolyte levels and may also result in dependence. Docusate should not be used in people with:
Appendicitis
Acute stomach pain
Bowel impaction, and
Those who have nausea and vomiting
Throat irritation has occurred in some patients after taking liquid formulations of docusate orally.
Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medication works or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use and share it with your doctor or pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.
A product that may interact with this drug is: mineral oil
Precautions
Do not share this medicine with others. Keep all medical and lab appointments. To prevent constipation, eat dietary fiber, drink enough water, and exercise. Use this medication for temporary relief of constipation only. To prevent becoming dependent on laxatives, do not take this medication for a long period. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist.
