Overview
Dioctyl contains the active substance docusate sodium, it is one of a group of medicines called ‘laxatives’. They are usually taken to prevent and treat constipation that has lasted for a long time. It may also be taken during certain types of stomach X-rays, or to help you go to the toilet if you have piles (haemorrhoids).
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question? We’re here to help.
Can Dioctyl (Docusate) 100mg Capsules For Constipation be taken with food and drink?
Yes! Dioctyl (Docusate) 100mg Capsules For Constipation can be taken with or without food.
Can I use Dioctyl (Docusate) 100mg Capsules For Constipation if I am pregnant or breast-feeding?
If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine.
The safety of Dioctyl during pregnancy has not yet been proven. Meanwhile, docusate sodium is excreted in breast milk and should therefore, be used with caution in breastfeeding mothers.
Is Dioctyl (Docusate) 100mg Capsules For Constipation suitable for children?
Dioctyl (Docusate) 100mg Capsules For Constipation is not suitable for children under 12 years of age.
What if I take more Dioctyl (Docusate) 100mg Capsules For Constipation than I should?
If you take more Dioctyl (Docusate) 100mg Capsules For Constipation than you should, drink lots of water and immediately go to your doctor or the nearest hospital emergency department.
What if I forget to take Dioctyl (Docusate) 100mg Capsules For Constipation?
If you forget to take this medication, do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.
What if I stop taking Dioctyl (Docusate) 100mg Capsules For Constipation?
You should speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you stop taking this, or have any further questions on this medication.
How do I store Dioctyl (Docusate) 100mg Capsules For Constipation?
This medication should be stored in the original packaging to protect it from moisture, and below 25°C. Do not use after the expiry date which is stated on the label after EXP. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.
How do I dispose of Dioctyl (Docusate) 100mg Capsules For Constipation?
You should not throw away any medications via wastewater or household waste. Instead, ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.
Is Docusate the same as Dulcolax?
No, docusate and Dulcolax are not the same. Docusate (the active ingredient in Dioctyl) is a stool softener that helps soften stools to make them easier to pass. Dulcolax usually refers to bisacodyl, a stimulant laxative that works by stimulating the bowel muscles. They are different types of laxatives and work in different ways.
Is Docusate a strong laxative?
Docusate is not considered a strong laxative. It is a stool softener, which means it works gently by increasing the amount of water in the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. It is generally milder than stimulant laxatives such as bisacodyl or senna.
Can you take Docusate once a day?
Yes, docusate can be taken once a day if that is sufficient for you. The total daily dose can be divided throughout the day or taken at one time, as long as the maximum recommended dose is not exceeded.
Is 100mg of docusate sodium a lot?
No, 100mg is the standard strength for a single capsule of docusate sodium. Adults and adolescents (12 years and older) may take up to 5 capsules (500mg) in a day, so 100mg is considered a normal dose.
What is the best time of day to take Docusate?
There is no specific best time of day to take docusate. You may take it at any time that is convenient for you, with a glass of water. Some people prefer to take it in the evening so that it works overnight, but consistency is more important than timing.
Are Docusate tablets safe to take daily?
Docusate can be taken daily for short-term relief of constipation. However, it should not be used for long periods without medical advice. If you need to take it regularly for more than a few days, you should consult your doctor to rule out underlying causes of constipation.
How long does it take for Docusate 100mg to work?
Docusate usually takes 1 to 3 days to work. It is not a fast-acting laxative but works gently to soften stools over time.
How long does it take for Docusate to make you poop?
It normally takes between 24 and 72 hours (1–3 days) for docusate to have an effect. If you do not notice improvement after this time, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
What should you not take with Docusate sodium?
You should avoid taking docusate at the same time as mineral oil, as this combination can increase absorption of mineral oil and lead to harmful side effects. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any other medicines you are taking to avoid interactions.
Which is better, Dulcolax or Docusate?
It depends on your needs. Docusate is a stool softener that works gently and is better for people who need softer stools (e.g., after surgery or with haemorrhoids). Dulcolax (bisacodyl) is a stimulant laxative that works more quickly and forcefully by stimulating bowel movements. Your doctor or pharmacist can advise which is more appropriate for your situation.
Can I buy Dioctyl (Docusate) 100mg Capsules For Constipation online?
Yes! Dioctyl (Docusate) 100mg Capsules For Constipation can be brought from trusted online doctor and pharmacy e-Surgery and e-Pharmacy. We are regulated by the GPhC, MHRA and CQC to provide you with a simple and legal way for you to order your medication online.
To ensure that any medication you buy online is genuine and the pharmacy is operating legally, check that the green GPhC logo is at the bottom of each page or check the pharmacy’s status on the GPhC website.
Where can I find additional information about Dioctyl (Docusate) 100mg Capsules For Constipation?
If you require any additional information about Dioctyl (Docusate) 100mg Capsules For Constipation, there are plenty of reputable sources available, including the BNF.
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Directions
You should always take this medicine exactly as described in the patient information leaflet. The recommended dose in adults and adolescents (12 years and older) is:
- Maximum dose is 5 capsules although you may need less.
- Take your capsules one at a time at regular intervals throughout the day.
- Swallow Dioctyl capsules whole with a drink of water.
- Reduce the dose as your condition gets better.
- If you have been told to take Dioctyl during a stomach X-ray, you should take four capsules. Your doctor will tell you exactly when to take the capsules.
Side Effects
Like all medicines, this medication can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. If any of the following happen, stop taking this medication and tell your doctor as soon as possible: diarrhoea, feeling stick, stomach cramps, skin rash, and itching.
How it works
Dioctyl (Docusate) is a stool softener that works by reducing surface tension of liquids in the intestinal tract. As a surfactant, it allows water and fats to penetrate hardened stool, making it softer and easier to pass. Unlike stimulant laxatives, docusate doesn’t increase intestinal motility but simply facilitates moisture absorption into dry, compacted fecal matter. This gentle mechanism typically produces bowel movements within 12-72 hours, making it suitable for preventing constipation or treating mild cases without causing cramping or urgency.
Delivery
We use Royal Mail for deliveries, with the delivery choices including Royal Mail Tracked 48, Royal Mail Tracked 24, Royal Mail Special Delivery by 1pm.
Your Dioctyl (Docusate) 100mg Capsules For Constipation will arrive in discreet and fully recyclable packaging to the address specified.
Ingredients
The main ingredient in this medication is 100mg of docusate sodium.
The other ingredients are macrogol 400, propylene glycol, gelatin 175 bloom, purified water, glycerol, sorbitol, titanium dioxide (E171), quinoline yellow (E104), sunset yellow (E110), lecithin, isopropyl alcohol and medium-chain triglycerides.
Warnings
You should not take this medication if any of the following apply to you:
- if you are allergic to docusate sodium or any of the other ingredients of this medicine.
- if you are suffering from stomach pains.
- if you are feeling sick or have been sick in the last 24 hours.
- if you have a blocked bowel (intestinal obstruction).
- if you have been told you are unable to take a sugar called fructose. Dioctyl contains sorbitol and is therefore unsuitable for you.