Products
Docusate sodium is commercially available in many countries in the form of soft capsules and as ear drops, among other products. It is not registered as a laxative in many countries.
Structure and properties
Docusate sodium (C20H37NaO7S, Mr = 444.6 g/mol) exists as white, hygroscopic, and waxy flakes or masses and is sparingly soluble in water. Other salts exist, for example docusate calcium and docusate potassium.
Effects
Docusate sodium (ATC A06AA02) has laxative and cerumenolytic properties. The effects are due to the reduction of surface tension, which allows the stool or earwax to be softened by water. However, its clinical efficacy as a laxative is controversial in the literature.
Indications for use
- For the symptomatic treatment of constipation.
- For softening of bowel movements, for example, before examinations, hemorrhoids or anal fissure.
- To dissolve a plug of earwax.
Docusate sodium is also used as a pharmaceutical excipient, for example, for tablets and effervescent tablets.
Dosage
According to the professional information. Use depends on the drug product. Docusate sodium is administered perorally, rectally, and auricularly. The capsules are usually taken once or twice daily. The ear drops are placed in the external auditory canal and allowed to act. This is followed by rinsing with lukewarm water.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting
- Intestinal obstruction, intestinal obstruction
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Docusate sodium may increase the absorption of other active ingredients and substances. Therefore, it should not be taken with kerosene oil.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects of peroral administration include gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea, nausea and cramps, and skin rashes. These adverse reactions occur rarely.