Uses of Docusate Enema:

• It is used to treat constipation.

What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Docusate Enema?

• If you have an allergy to docusate or any other part of docusate enema.
• If you are allergic to docusate enema; any part of docusate enema; or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had.
• If you have any of these health problems: Bowel block, belly pain, upset stomach, rectal bleeding, throwing up, or change in bowel habits lasting longer than 2 weeks.
• If you are taking mineral oil.

This is not a list of all drugs or health problems that interact with docusate enema.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take docusate enema with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.

What are some things I need to know or do while I take Docusate Enema?

• Tell all of your health care providers that you take docusate enema. This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
• Do not use docusate enema for more than 1 week unless told to do so by your doctor.
• If you have rectal bleeding or you do not have a bowel movement after using docusate enema, talk with your doctor.
• Do not use other laxatives or stool softeners unless told to do so by the doctor.
• If you are on a low-sodium or sodium-free diet, talk with your doctor. Some of these products have sodium.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan on getting pregnant, or are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks to you and the baby.

How is this medicine (Docusate Enema) best taken?

Use docusate enema as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.

• This medicine is for rectal use only. Do not take docusate enema by mouth.
• Take off cap.
• Put a lubricant on the enema tip and on the anus before using docusate enema.
• Put enema tip into the rectum with gentle pressure. Do not force.
• Squeeze the bottle until almost all the liquid is gone.
• If the tip of the tube or docusate enema will not go into the rectum, do not force it. Call the doctor.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

• If you take docusate enema on a regular basis, take a missed dose as soon as you think about it.
• If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time.
• Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.
• Many times docusate enema is taken on an as needed basis. Do not take more often than told by the doctor.

What are some side effects that I need to call my doctor about right away?

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Rectal irritation.

What are some other side effects of Docusate Enema?

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Stomach cramps.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.

How do I store and/or throw out Docusate Enema?

• Store at room temperature. Do not freeze.
• Store in a dry place. Do not store in a bathroom.
• Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
• Throw away unused or expired drugs. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs. There may be drug take-back programs in your area.

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

• If your symptoms or health problems do not get better or if they become worse, call your doctor.
• Do not share your drugs with others and do not take anyone else's drugs.
• Some drugs may have another patient information leaflet. Check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions about docusate enema, please talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
• If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.

Frequently asked questions

• Which drugs cause opioid-induced constipation?