Docusate
COLACE
“Document Collator”
What it isAnionic surfactant marketed to soften stool; constipation prevention and treatment.
Why this oneDespite entrenched use, controlled trials have not shown meaningful benefit over placebo.
What limits it⚑ Minimal toxicity is its main virtue; do not let it displace an effective osmotic or stimulant laxative.
Docusate prescription history
Animated chart of estimated U.S. prescriptions per year, Constipation meds (1900–2026). Docusate enters in 1954 (estimated).
FDA-approved for
- constipation (~1957)
Principal riskIt performs no better than placebo
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Defining liabilityGastrointestinal irritation and electrolyte loss with excessive use
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
NO BOXED WARNINGS
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Occasional constipation (stool softener; bowel movement generally in 12–72 h) | ≥12 yr | 1–3 capsules daily (single dose or divided) | 1–3 capsules daily | 3 capsules/day |
| Occasional constipation | 2 to <12 yr | 1 capsule daily | 1 capsule daily | 1 capsule/day |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Do not use a stool softener laxative for more than 1 week
Instructions
- Take only by mouth
- May take as a single daily dose or in divided doses
- Children under 2 years: ask a doctor
Available strengths
- cap 50, 100, 240, 250 mg
- tab 100 mg
- sol 100 mg/10 mL
- sol 50, 283 mg/5 mL
Contraindications
- Concurrent mineral oil, unless directed by a doctor
Cautions
- Ask a doctor before use: stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or a sudden change in bowel habits lasting over 2 weeks
- Stop use and ask a doctor: rectal bleeding, or failure to have a bowel movement after use (possible serious condition)
- Do not use for more than 1 week
Pregnancy If pregnant, ask a health professional before use.
Lactation If breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use.
Cost
| Strength | #/mo | generic $/mo | brand $/mo | CostPlus | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 mg | cap | 30 qd | — | $7.69 | not offered |
| 100 mg | cap | 30 qd | $0.83 | — | not offered |
| 240 mg | cap | 30 qd | — | not offered | |
| 250 mg | cap | 30 qd | $1.57 | — | not offered |
Available combined with: senna / docusate
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Memory aids: interaction avatars
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Self-check
- What have controlled trials found for docusate versus placebo?
No meaningful benefit. - What should docusate not displace?
An effective osmotic or stimulant laxative.