Docusate Sodium

Constipation where straining is undesirable (haemorrhoids, anal fissure, post-surgery). Also used as an ear wax softener.

Docusate is a surfactant - it reduces the surface tension of the stool, allowing water and fats to penetrate it. This softens the stool. It also has a mild stimulant effect on the bowel wall. The combination makes it particularly useful for hard, difficult-to-pass stools.

Adults and children. Particularly useful post-operatively, for haemorrhoid and fissure patients, and when opioids are causing constipation. Avoid in bowel obstruction.

Order online and we review your request. A prescriber checks your consultation form for clinical appropriateness and contacts you if anything else is needed. Once approved, your medication is dispensed and delivered to your door.

Tracked: Tracked delivery, arrives in two working days - Free

When it arrives: Every order is sent tracked. Where this page says in post today, it goes out today. Where it says in post tomorrow, it goes out the next working day. On the rare occasions a medicine is unavailable, we will contact you to talk about timing and alternatives.

We dispense clinically equivalent generic medications where available. Prices shown are for the generic version. If you prefer the branded version, let us know in your order form and we will confirm any price difference.

Docusate Sodium from £10.99 per pack.

Lactulose: bloating, flatulence, abdominal cramps (usually improve with continued use). Macrogol: bloating, nausea, abdominal pain. Senna: abdominal cramps, prolonged use may cause melanosis coli. Docusate: generally well tolerated, occasional cramping.

Intestinal obstruction, paralytic ileus, acute inflammatory bowel conditions, severe dehydration.

Laxatives may affect absorption of other medicines - take other medications 1-2 hours before or after. Loperamide: opioid structure means interactions possible with CYP inhibitors at high doses.

Lactulose and macrogol: generally considered safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Senna: use with caution, short-term only. Loperamide: limited data - use only if clearly needed.

Take 100-200mg up to three times daily. Works within 1-2 days. Well-tolerated - mild abdominal cramps occasionally. Can be combined with other laxatives. As ear drops: instil for a few days before ear syringing to soften wax.