DocusateOver the counter

Pronounced DOK-yoo-sate

Brand names: Colace

Type: Stool softener · All Digestive (GI) Medicines

What Docusate is used for

  • Preventing hard, dry stools
  • Reducing straining after surgery or with hemorrhoids

◆ Kidney note

Safe in kidney disease; it is often combined with senna after transplant and surgery.

Common side effects

  • Mild stomach cramps
  • Diarrhea
  • Throat irritation (liquid)

Important cautions

  • On its own it is weak — persistent constipation usually needs a different or additional treatment

How it comes

Capsules, tablets, liquid. This guide lists forms only — it never lists strengths or doses.

Please note: This page is a patient-education summary, not medical advice, and it deliberately contains no doses. Medicines affect everyone differently — always follow your own prescription and talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping or changing any medicine.