Question 1

stool softener= docusate sodium or docusate calcium?

Accepted Answer

Either: Both work by causing small bowel to secrete fluid into gut. Increased fluid helps to sofeten hard stool; not a stimulant.

Question 2

is docusate sodium or docusate calcium a better stool softener?

Accepted Answer

Depends: Since calcium tends to constipate, i'd tend to side with the sodium version. However, people with hypertension who are limiting their sodium intake should probably choose the calcium version. The docusate is the active component; so either version should work. Adding more fiber & fluids to your diet will help keep you regular, too.

Question 3

i have bronchitis and was given azithromyacin 250mg for it. i'm currently taking 1 bisocodyl 5mg/day, and 1 docusate sodium 100mg/day. may i take all three together safely?

Accepted Answer

Usually ok: Generally, the two constipation medications and azithromycin should be ok taken separately or taken together. If worried about stomach symptoms, one can take them separately, which is easy to do as azithromycin is a once-a-day drug. That said, some people get gurgly tummies and loose stools on azithromycin... and won't need laxatives on azithromycin days. Time will tell.

Question 4

is it safe to take docusate calcium daily?

Accepted Answer

Not advised: Taking any laxative daily can become addicting, and then you will have major problems if you ever stop.  Try not to use it more than 2-3 days in a row.

Question 5

how often can i safely ingest docusate sodium?

Accepted Answer

No wrong way.: Very safe up to 4 times per day.  Docusate sodium is a soap which is not absorbed.  There is no wrong way to take it.  If you find that taking it in a certain way is better for you, by all means, continue.

Question 6

when are there side effects of docusate sodium?

Accepted Answer

GI mostly, : Can cause diarrhea, cramps, elctrolyte (blood chemistry) abnormalities, rarely rash or throat irritation. Side effects within 1-3 days.

Question 7

is it dangerous to use docusate sodium every day?

Accepted Answer

Maybe not, but...: Before you contemplate long term laxative dependency, seek medical evaluation--rule out metabolic causes of constipation (e.g. Low thyroid or adrenal conditions), distinguish slow versus normal transit constipation, consider a primary rectal dysfunction that may be treatable with biofeedback, check for structural pathology or extrinsic impingement, or intermittent ileus (e.g. Pseudo-obstruction).

Question 8

colace (docusate sodium) or ducolax which is better?

Accepted Answer

Dulcolax: Dulcolax probably better in an acute situations with no bowel movements in few days. Colace (docusate sodium) is sometimes used on a daily basis for patients with a tendency to constipation and it takes longer for its effect. Given your age would suggest light exercise and good hydration along with a high fiber diet.

Question 9

do any jelly beans contain colace (docusate sodium)?

Accepted Answer

No: Although corn syrup is a mild laxative. And sugar free candies contain  sugar like alcohols  such as  manitol , xylitol which are also mild laxatives.

Question 10

can docusate sodium cause a gout like painful reaction?

Accepted Answer

No: It is not suppose to do that. See your md!

Get Virtual Care

For Businesses

About Us

HealthTap Online Primary Care Doctors Accepting New Patients

Doctor answers about:

Docusate calcium vs docusate sodium

A member asked:

Stool softener= docusate sodium or docusate calcium?

A member asked:

Is docusate sodium or docusate calcium a better stool softener?

A member asked:

I have bronchitis and was given azithromyacin 250mg for it. i'm currently taking 1 bisocodyl 5mg/day, and 1 docusate sodium 100mg/day. may i take all three together safely?

A member asked:

Is it safe to take docusate calcium daily?

A member asked:

How often can i safely ingest docusate sodium?

A member asked:

When are there side effects of docusate sodium?

A member asked:

Is it dangerous to use docusate sodium every day?

A member asked:

Colace (docusate sodium) or ducolax which is better?

A member asked:

Do any jelly beans contain colace (docusate sodium)?

A member asked:

Can docusate sodium cause a gout like painful reaction?

HealthTap Online Primary Care Doctors Accepting New Patients

Telemedicine

Primary Care

Manage Your Conditions

Women's Health

Children's Health

Men's Health

Senior Health

Wellness, Prevention & Lifestyle

Sexual Health

Mental & Behavioral Health

Travel Medicine

Urgent Care

Didn't find what you're looking for?

More of what we treat

Allergies

Antibiotics

Asthma

High Blood Pressure

Prescriptions

Type 2 Diabetes

For Businesses

Company

Health Content

Join Us

Download HealthTap

Questions?