Drug reference

Docusate sodium

Laxative · Laxative, Ceruminolytic agent

Also known as Dioctyl sodium sulphosuccinate, Dioctyl

LaxativeLaxative, Ceruminolytic agent

CDSCO approved

EXCRETION

—

not curated

INTERACTIONS

—

none in our sources

PREGNANCY

—

not curated

Mechanism

Docusate sodium is a softening laxative that facilitates the passage of stool by increasing the penetration of water and lipids into the faecal mass, thus softening it. It also acts as a softening agent when applied to earwax, aiding in its dislodgement and removal.

Indications

Chronic constipationAdjunct in abdominal radiological proceduresRemoval of ear wax

Dosing

Adult: Chronic constipation: Up to 500 mg daily in divided doses (oral); 120 mg for 1 dose (rectal). Adjunct in abdominal radiological procedures: 400 mg, to be administered with barium meal (oral); 120 mg for 1 dose (rectal). Removal of ear wax: Consult product literature (to the ear).
Pediatric: Chronic constipation (oral): Child 6–23 months: 12.5 mg 3 times a day; Child 2–11 years: 12.5–25 mg 3 times a day; Child 12–17 years: Up to 500 mg daily in divided doses. Chronic constipation (rectal): Child 12–17 years: 120 mg for 1 dose.
Max dose: 500 mg daily