Dioctyl

What is Dioctyl Used For?

Dioctyl contains docusate sodium, which belongs to a group of medicines called surfactant laxatives. It is used to prevent and treat chronic constipation by softening the stool and making it easier to pass. Your doctor may also give it to empty the bowel before an abdominal X-ray.

Laxatives are not a long-term solution for constipation and should only be used for the short term. If you feel you need to use laxatives regularly to relieve constipation, arrange an appointment to speak to your GP.

How Does Dioctyl Work?

The active ingredient in Dioctyl capsules (docusate sodium) reduces the surface tension of hard stools that accumulate in the intestine by allowing water and fats to penetrate them, making the stools softer and easier to pass. Using Dioctyl 100mg can be particularly helpful for people with haemorrhoids (piles) or an anal fissure (a tear in the lining of the anus).

How Long Does Dioctyl Take to Work?

Typically, Dioctyl capsules take 1 to 3 days to work to relieve constipation. They do not provide instant relief and work gradually to increase moisture in your stools, making them easier to pass.

How to Take Dioctyl 100mg Capsules

Always ensure that you take Dioctyl capsules exactly as advised. Check with your clinician or doctor if you're unsure. The maximum dose is 5 capsules, though you may need less to relieve your symptoms.

Take your capsules one at a time at regular intervals throughout the day. Your clinician will advise you exactly when to do this. Swallow the medication whole with a drink of water, and reduce your dose as your condition improves.

If You Forget to Take Dioctyl

If you forget to take Dioctyl when you should, simply take your next capsule as normal. Do not take a double dose to make up for one you have forgotten.

If You Take Too Many Dioctyl Capsules

If you take more Dioctyl than you should, drink lots of water and go immediately to your nearest accident and emergency department or your doctor. Take the Patient Information Leaflet and any remaining capsules with you.

Dioctyl Side Effects and Cautions

Dioctyl capsules may cause side effects, though not everyone will experience them. If you experience the following adverse reactions, stop using the medication and tell your clinician as soon as possible:

• Diarrhoea
• Nausea
• Stomach cramps

These symptoms are rare and may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people. Skin rash and itching have also been recorded, though their frequency cannot be estimated from available data.

Dioctyl Warnings and Interactions

Dioctyl capsules may not be suitable for everyone, so it's important to review the medication thoroughly before starting treatment and seek medical advice if you're unsure whether you should take them.

Do not take Dioctyl 100mg if you:

• Are allergic to docusate sodium or any of the other ingredients in the medication
• Are suffering from stomach pains
• Are feeling sick or have been sick in the last 24 hours
• Have a blocked bowel
• Have been told you are unable to take fructose

Tell your clinician if you are taking any other medicine, including over-the-counter treatments, mineral oil, or herbal remedies. You should also seek medical advice before starting Dioctyl if you:

• Need to take a laxative every day
• Have regular or constant stomach pain

This is because other health conditions should be excluded before taking the medication. Treating constipation with Dioctyl should only be done in addition to a healthy lifestyle and diet.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to have a baby, speak to your clinician or doctor before starting treatment. This is because it has not been proven how safe it is to take Dioctyl during pregnancy.

Docusate sodium is excreted in breast milk, so breastfeeding mothers should use it with caution.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dioctyl 100mg