Docusate
About
Docusate is a type of medicine called a laxative. It helps to soften your poo and makes it easier for you to go to the toilet if you have problems pooing (constipation). Docusate may help you if: your poos are dry and it makes it difficult for you to poo you have piles (haemorrhoids) you have a tear in the lining of your intestine, near your anus (anal fissure) you're going to have a stomach x-ray as it can help you empty your bowels beforehand Docusate comes as capsules and as a liquid that you swallow. It also comes as an enema. This is a tube of liquid medicine that you squeeze into your anus (bottom). Docusate is available on prescription and to buy from pharmacies. Docusate capsules and liquid take 1 to 3 days to work. Side effects can include feeling sick (nausea), stomach cramps and diarrhoea. Docusate enemas usually work within 20 minutes, so it's best to stay close to a toilet. Do not use a docusate enema if you have piles (haemorrhoids) or a tear near your anus (anal fissure). Only give docusate to a child under 12 years old if a doctor prescribes it or a pharmacist recommends it. Do not take docusate for more than 5 days, unless it's prescribed by a doctor. Talk to a doctor if you still have constipation after 5 days. Page last reviewed: 10 May 2024 Next review due: 10 May 2027
Key facts
Docusate capsules and liquid take 1 to 3 days to work.
Side effects can include feeling sick (nausea), stomach cramps and diarrhoea.
Docusate enemas usually work within 20 minutes, so it's best to stay close to a toilet.
Do not use a docusate enema if you have piles (haemorrhoids) or a tear near your anus (anal fissure).
Only give docusate to a child under 12 years old if a doctor prescribes it or a pharmacist recommends it.
Do not take docusate for more than 5 days, unless it's prescribed by a doctor. Talk to a doctor if you still have constipation after 5 days.