Dulcolax Stool Softener: Side Effects, Uses and Dosage

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Generic name: docusate sodium 100mg capsules [ DOK-ue-sate-SOE-dee-um ]
Drug class: Laxatives

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Apr 12, 2022.

What is Dulcolax Stool Softener?

Dulcolax Stool Softener (docusate) makes bowel movements softer and easier to pass.

Dulcolax Stool Softener 100mg capsules are used to treat or prevent occasional constipation.

Dulcolax Stool Softener is also used to reduce pain or rectal damage caused by hard stools or by straining during bowel movements.

Click for information on Dulcolax Laxative (bisacodyl).

Warnings

You should not use Dulcolax Stool Softener if you have a blockage in your intestines. Do not use Dulcolax Stool Softener while you are sick with nausea, vomiting, or severe stomach pain.

You should not take mineral oil while using Dulcolax Stool Softener.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Dulcolax Stool Softener if you are allergic to docusate sodium, or if you have:

• nausea, vomiting, or severe stomach pain;

• a blockage in your intestines; or

• chronic stomach pain that has not been checked by a doctor.

You should not take mineral oil while using Dulcolax Stool Softener.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take docusate sodium:

It is not known whether docusate sodium will harm an unborn baby. Do not use Dulcolax Stool Softener without a doctor’s advice if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether docusate sodium passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor’s advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 6 years old without the advice of a doctor.

How should I use Dulcolax Stool Softener?

Use Dulcolax Stool Softener exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Take this medicine with a full glass of water. Drink plenty of liquids while you are taking Dulcolax Stool Softener.

Do not chew, break, or open a Dulcolax Stool Softener 100mg capsule. Swallow the capsule whole.

After taking this medicine you should have a bowel movement within 12 to 72 hours.

Do not use Dulcolax Stool Softener for longer than 7 days unless your doctor has told you to. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if you have not had a bowel movement within 1 to 3 days. Overuse of a stool softener can lead to serious medical problems.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Dosing information

Usual Dose for Constipation – Adults and Children over 12 years of age:

Oral: 100mg to 300 mg orally administered in 1 to 3 equally divided doses each day.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Constipation:

Oral:
2 to 12 years: One 100mg capsule once a day.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since Dulcolax Stool Softener is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are on a schedule, use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting or stomach pain.

What should I avoid while using Dulcolax Stool Softener?

Avoid using laxatives or other stool softeners unless your doctor has told you to.

Dulcolax Stool Softener side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using Dulcolax Stool Softener and call your doctor at once if you have:

• pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest;

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;

• rectal bleeding or irritation;

• numbness or a rash around your rectum;

• vomiting, severe diarrhea or stomach cramps; or

• continued constipation, or no bowel movement.

Common Dulcolax Stool Softener side effects may include:

• dizziness, weakness;

• gas, bloating, mild diarrhea;

• rectal irritation; or

• sweating.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Dulcolax Stool Softener?

Other drugs may interact with docusate sodium, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Popular FAQ

Any drug that is classified as an “opioid” can cause constipation. Examples of commonly prescribed opioids that may cause this side effect include morphine, tramadol, fentanyl, methadone, hydrocodone, codeine and oxycodone. Continue reading

References

1. Dulcolax Product Label

More about Dulcolax Stool Softener (docusate)

• Check interactions
• Compare alternatives
• Reviews (1)
• Side effects
• Dosage information
• During pregnancy
• Drug class: laxatives
• Breastfeeding
• En español

Patient resources

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Professional resources

• Prescribing Information

Other formulations

• Dulcolax
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Related treatment guides

• Constipation

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use Dulcolax Stool Softener only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2023 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 3.03.

Dulcolax Stool Softener (Docusate) Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

This medication is used to treat occasional constipation. Some medications and conditions can make constipation more likely. Stool softeners such as docusate are often the first method used for preventing and treating this type of constipation. Docusate is often used when straining to have a bowel movement should be avoided (such as after a heart attack or surgery).Docusate is a stool softener. It works by increasing the amount of water the stool absorbs in the gut, making the stool softer and easier to pass. Relief is usually seen in 1 to 3 days with this medication.Check the ingredients on the label even if you have used the product before. The manufacturer may have changed the ingredients. Also, products with similar names may contain different ingredients meant for different purposes. Taking the wrong product could harm you.

How to use Dulcolax Stool Softener

If you are taking the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read and follow all 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. The dosage is based on your medical condition, age, and response to treatment.

If you are using the liquid form of this medication, measure the dose carefully using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. If you are using the drops, measure the medication with the dropper provided, or use a dose-measuring spoon or device to make sure you have the correct dose. Mix the syrup, liquid or drops in 4 to 8 ounces of fruit juice, milk or infant formula to prevent throat irritation and mask a bitter taste.

Use this medication only when needed. Do not use this product for more than 1 week unless directed by your doctor.

Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often or for longer than directed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.

If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

Side Effects

Stomach pain, diarrhea, or cramping may occur. Irritated throat (with liquid or syrup forms) may also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: rectal bleeding.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking docusate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication: severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, sudden change in bowel habits over the previous 2 weeks.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication.

It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work 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 (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and 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.

Does Dulcolax Stool Softener interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Do not share this medication 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 of time.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Images

Dulcolax Stool Softener (docusate) 100 mg capsule

Color: red,whiteShape: ovalImprint: L486

This medicine is a red white, oval, capsule imprinted with “L486”.

Dulcolax Stool Softener (docusate) 100 mg capsule

Color: redShape: ovalImprint: Dulcolax

This medicine is a red white, oval, capsule imprinted with “L486”.

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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

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This document, provided by Lexicomp ^® , contains all the information you need to know about this medicine, including indications, directions for use, side effects, and when your healthcare provider should be contacted.

Trade names: USA

Alophen [OTC]; Bisacodyl EC [OTC]; Correct [OTC] [DSC]; Ducodyl [OTC]; Dulcolax [OTC]; Ex-Lax Ultra [OTC]; Fleet Bisacodyl [OTC]; Gentle Laxative [OTC]; GoodSense Bisacodyl EC [OTC]; GoodSense Bisacodyl Laxative [OTC]; GoodSense Women’s Laxative [OTC]; OneLAX [OTC]; The Magic Bullet [OTC]; Women’s Laxative [OTC]

What is this drug used for?

• This drug is used to treat constipation.
• It is used as a laxative to cleanse the large intestine from feces before the study.

What should I tell my doctor BEFORE taking this drug?

All forms:

• If you have an allergy to this drug, any of its ingredients, other drugs, foods or substances. Tell your doctor about your allergies and how they have manifested.
• If you have any of the following health problems: bowel obstruction, abdominal pain, nausea, rectal bleeding, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits that persist for more than 2 weeks.

Tablets:

• If you cannot swallow without chewing.

This list of drugs and conditions that may interact with this drug is not exhaustive.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines you take (both prescription and over-the-counter, natural products and vitamins) and any health problems you have. You need to make sure that this drug is safe for your conditions and in combination with other drugs you are already taking. Do not start or stop taking any drug or change the dosage without your doctor’s advice.

What do I need to know or do while taking this drug?

All forms:

• Tell all your health care workers that you are taking this drug. These are doctors, nurses, pharmacists and dentists.
• Do not use this drug for more than 1 week unless directed to do so by your doctor.
• Do not use other laxatives or stool softeners unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
• If you have rectal bleeding or have no bowel movements after taking this drug, talk with your doctor.
• Various forms of release of this drug may be intended for use in children of different ages. Talk to your doctor before giving this drug to a child.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The benefits and risks for you and your child will need to be discussed.

Tablets:

• Do not consume dairy products, calcium supplements, or magnesium within 1 hour of taking this drug.
• Do not take antacids within 1 hour before and 1 hour after taking this drug.

What side effects should I report to my doctor immediately?

WARNING. In rare cases, this drug can cause serious and sometimes deadly side effects in some patients. Call your doctor right away or get medical help if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that could be associated with serious side effects:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red and swollen skin with blisters or peeling, possibly accompanied by fever, wheezing or wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing or speaking, unusual hoarseness, swelling in the mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat.

What are some other side effects of this drug?

Any medicine can have side effects. However, for many people, side effects are either minor or non-existent. Talk to your doctor or get medical help if these or any other side effects bother you or don’t go away:

All editions:

• Pain or cramps in the abdomen.

All drugs for rectal use:

• Burn.

This list of possible side effects is not exhaustive. If you have any questions about side effects, please contact your doctor. Talk to your doctor about side effects.

You can report side effects to the National Health Board.

You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You can also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

What is the best way to take this drug?

Use this drug as directed by your doctor. Read all the information provided to you. Strictly follow all instructions.

Tablets:

• Take this drug with a full glass of water.
• Swallow whole. Do not chew, break or crush.

Suppositories:

• Apply the suppository to the rectum.
• Wash your hands before and after use.
• Remove foil wrap.
• Gently pressing, insert the candle with the pointed end forward into the rectum. Do not hold in your hands for too long.

Rectal enema:

• Enema for rectal use.
• Wash your hands before and after use.
• Shake well before use.
• With gentle pressure, insert the tip of the enema into the rectum. Strong pressure is unacceptable.
• Squeeze the vial until almost all of the liquid comes out.

What if I miss a dose of a drug?

• If you take the drug regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you can.
• If it’s time for your next dose, don’t take the missed dose and then go back to your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not take 2 doses or an additional dose at the same time.
• In most cases, this drug is used as needed. Do not take the drug more often than prescribed by your doctor.

How do I store and/or discard this drug?

• Store at room temperature in a dry place. Do not store in the bathroom.
• Keep all medicines in a safe place. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets.
• Dispose of unused or expired drugs. Do not empty into a toilet or sewer unless instructed to do so. If you have any questions about disposing of medicines, ask your pharmacist. Drug disposal programs may be in place in your area.

General information about medicines

• If your health does not improve or even worsens, see your doctor.
• Do not give your medicine to anyone and do not take other people’s medicines.
• Some medicines may come with other patient information leaflets. If you have questions about this drug, talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
• Some medicines may come with other patient information leaflets. Check with your pharmacist. If you have questions about this drug, talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
• If you think you have overdosed, call a poison control center or get medical help right away. Be prepared to tell or show what drug you took, how much, and when it happened.

Consumer Use of Information and Limitation of Liability

This summary information includes a summary of the diagnosis, treatment, and/or drug product. It is not intended to be a comprehensive source of data and should be used as a tool to help the user understand and/or evaluate potential diagnostic and treatment options. It does NOT include all information about conditions, treatments, medications, side effects, or risks that may apply to a particular patient. It should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a physician based on a medical examination and assessment of the patient’s specific and unique circumstances. Patients should consult with their physician for full information about their health, medical issues, and treatment options, including any risks or benefits regarding the use of medications. This information is not a guarantee that a treatment or drug is safe, effective, or approved for a particular patient. UpToDate, Inc. and its subsidiaries disclaim any warranties or liabilities related to this information or its use. The use of this information is subject to the Terms of Use found at https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/know/clinical-effectiveness-terms.

Last revision date

2022-07-20

Copyright

© UpToDate, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors, 2023. All rights reserved.

Date last updated

Monday, December 12, 2022

Dulcolax Stool Softener (Docusate) Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions and Pictures of Tablets0006

The display and use of drug information on this site is subject to the express terms of use. By continuing to view drug information, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Use.

• BOI00221: This medicine is a red oblong translucent capsule imprinted with “Dulcolax”.

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT contain all information possible about this product. This information does not guarantee that this product is safe, effective or suitable for you. This information does not constitute individual medical advice and does not replace the advice of your healthcare professional. Always ask your healthcare professional for complete information about this product and your specific medical needs.

This medicine is used to treat occasional constipation. Certain medications and conditions can increase the chance of constipation. Stool softeners such as docusate are often the first treatment for this type of constipation. Docusate is often used when overexertion for bowel movements should be avoided (for example, after a heart attack or surgery). Docusat is a stool softener. It works by increasing the amount of water absorbed by feces in the intestines, making stool softer and easier to pass.

Follow all directions on the product package unless directed otherwise by your doctor. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Take this medicine by mouth, usually at bedtime with a full glass (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) of water or juice, or as directed by your doctor. The dosage depends on your medical condition and response to therapy. Reduce your dose or stop taking this medicine if you develop diarrhea. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may get the wrong dose. If you are using drops, measure out the medicine using the dropper provided, or use a measuring spoon or device to make sure you get the correct dose. Mix syrup, liquid, or drops with 4-8 oz of fruit juice, milk, or infant formula to prevent throat irritation and mask bitter taste. Use this medicine only when needed. Do not use this product for more than 1 week unless directed by a physician. Usually improvement is observed in 1-3 days. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

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Stomach pain, diarrhea or cramps may occur. Throat irritation (with liquid forms or syrups) may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist immediately. If your doctor has advised you to use this medicine, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people who take this medicine do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if this unlikely but serious side effect occurs: rectal bleeding. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if this occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, difficulty breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the USA, ask your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or go to www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada, call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic or have other allergies before taking this medicine. This product may contain inactive ingredients that may cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. If you have any of the following health problems, check with your doctor or pharmacist before using this medicine: severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, sudden change in bowel habits within the previous 2 weeks. be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

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Drug interactions may change how your drugs work or increase the risk of serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Make a list of all the products you use (including prescription/OTC drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without your doctor’s approval. Some products that may interact with this medicine include: mineral oil, medicines containing phenolphthalein.

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as fainting or difficulty breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Residents of Canada can call their provincial poison control center.

Do not give this medicine to other people. Constipation can usually be prevented by eating a high-fiber diet, drinking enough fluids, and exercising regularly. Use this medicine only for temporary relief of constipation. Do not use this medicine for a long period of time so as not to become dependent on laxatives.