Colace (Docusate Sodium)

What is Colace?

Colace is a stool softener which is used to treat or prevent occasional constipation.

What is Colace used for?

Colace is used in the treatment and prevention of constipation. Constipation, which is caused by various conditions as well as by some medications, can lead to rectal damage. Also, the strain during difficult bowel movement can prove to be extremely harmful if the patient is recovering from a recent heart attack or a heart surgery. Colace is used to prevent such strain and relieve pain.

How does Colace work?

Colace helps stool absorb more water in the large intestines thus making the stool softer and hence easier to pass. It, thus, relieves and prevents constipation.

How to use Colace

Colace should be used exactly in the manner prescribed by a doctor. Taking a higher dose than prescribed may prove to be harmful. The dosage depends on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Colace tablets or capsules should be swallowed whole, usually at bedtime with a glass of water or juice.

If you are taking the liquid form of the medication measure the dose with the special measuring device/ spoon/ dropper that comes with the package or your pharmacist provides you with. Mix the liquid with 4-8 ounces of milk, fruit juice or infant formula to avoid throat irritation as well as to kill the bitter taste. Drink the mixture at once. Do not keep it for later use.

You should remember to drink plenty of liquids while taking Colace.

Results are noticed within 1-3 days. However, if your condition does not improve or becomes worse even after one week of use consult your doctor immediately.

This medication should not be used for more than a week unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Also, stop the medication or reduce the dose if you develop diarrhea, albeit after consultation with your doctor.

Colace warnings and precautions

Colace is not administered to patients who are allergic to any of its ingredients. Patients who are experiencing nausea, vomiting or stomach pain or have blockage in their intestines are also advised against using this medication.

Inform your doctor about all your medical conditions, especially if you are on a low-salt diet or if you have recently noticed changes in your bowel habits that have lasted for more than 2 weeks.

Use of mineral oils should be avoided while taking this medication.

Colace is not recommended for children younger than 2 years without a doctor’s advice.

Pregnant and lactating women are advised to discuss the possible risks and benefits of taking the medication with their doctors. Also inform your doctor if you plan a pregnancy during treatment.

What do I do if I have missed a Colace dose?

If you have missed a Colace dose, take it as soon as you remember. If, however, it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose can be skipped. Do not take a double dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Colace overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Colace, consult your doctor immediately.

Colace interactions

Mineral oils can cause serious interactions with Colace. They should be avoided during the course of this medication. Some other drugs which may also interact with this drug are: drugs containing phenolphthalein and aspirin.

It is necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription/non prescription drugs/herbal medicines that you are taking, before using Colace.

You should not start taking any new medicine, without consulting your doctor.

Colace side effects

Side effects from Colace include allergic symptoms such as hives, swelling, difficulty in breathing, etc. Seek emergency medical attention on appearance of such symptoms. Also, consult your doctor if you notice any of these serious side-effects: severe diarrhea, rash or numbness around rectum, rectal bleeding or irritation, or stomach cramps.

Mild nausea and mild diarrhea are some common and less serious side effects of Colace.