What is DOK?
DOK softens stools. It softens bowel movements and makes them easier to pass. Dok is used for occasional constipation. DOK can also be used to relieve pain and rectal damage that may result from straining or hard stools.
Warnings
If you have a blockage in your intestines, DOK should not be used. Docusate should not be used if you have nausea, vomiting, or severe abdominal pain. Do not use mineral oil when using DOK.
Before you take this drug
DOK should not be used if:
- Nausea, vomiting, or severe stomach pain;
- A blockage of your intestines
- Chronic stomach pain was not checked by your doctor.
Do not use DOK if you are using mineral oils.
You can ask your doctor or pharmacist whether it is safe to take the medicine.
- If you're on a diet low in salt,
- If you've recently experienced a sudden and lasting change in your bowel habit, this should last for more than two weeks.
Docusate is not known to harm unborn babies. If you are pregnant, do not take this medication without consulting your doctor. Docusate is not known to pass into breast milk. It's also unknown if it can harm a baby who is nursing. If you are breastfeeding a child, do not take this medication without consulting your doctor. Do not administer DOK to children younger than six years of age without consulting a physician.
How to take DOK?
DOK should be used exactly as instructed on the label or by your doctor. Use only the recommended dose and do not exceed it.Take this medication with a full glass of water. While taking DOK, drink plenty of fluids. DOK capsules and tablets should not be crushed, chewed, broken, or opened. It is best to swallow it whole. You should experience a bowel motion within 12 to 72 hours after taking DOK tablets or capsules. Docusate should not be used for more than seven days without the doctor's permission. Contact your doctor immediately if symptoms don't improve or if you do not have a bowel motion in one to three days. A stool softener used excessively can cause serious medical issues. Store in an airtight, moistureproof environment at room temperature to protect from heat and humidity.
What happens if I miss the dose?
You may not have a schedule for DOK since it is only used as needed. If you have a dosing schedule, take the missed dose immediately after you remember. If your next scheduled dosage is approaching, skip the missed dose. You should not take extra medicine to compensate for a missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention. You may experience nausea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort as a result of an overdose.
What should be avoided?
Use only if your doctor tells you to.
Side effects of DOK
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat.
If you experience:
- If you feel your heart pounding or fluttering, then this is a sign that you are experiencing a cardiac arrest.
- A feeling of lightheadedness, as if you could pass out.
- Rectal bleeding or irritation
- Numbness around the rectum or a rash
- Vomiting, severe diarrhea, or stomach cramps
- Continued constipation, or no bowel movement.
Some of the common side effects of DOK include:
- Dizziness, weakness;
- Gas, mild diarrhea;
- Rectal irritation;
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Interaction with other drug
Docusate may interact with other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your healthcare providers of all the medicines you are taking and those you plan to take.
