User:Mr. Ibrahem/Docusate

Docusate, also known as docusate salts or dioctyl sulfosuccinate, is a laxative of the stool softener type used to treat constipation. It is considered a good choice in children who have hard feces. Use for constipation, however, is poorly supported by evidence. It may be taken by mouth or used rectally. By mouth a bowel movement often occurs in 1 to 3 days, while rectal use may be effective within 20 minutes.

Side effects are uncommon. Rarely, there may be abdominal cramps or diarrhea. Efficacy decreases with long-term use, and may cause poor bowel function. Docusate is acceptable during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It works by allowing more water to be absorbed by the feces. It typically comes in the form of a sodium, calcium, or potassium salt.

It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. It is available as a generic medication and is not very expensive. In the United States, one hundred doses are about US$14. The sodium salt, dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate, also is used as a food additive, emulsifier, dispersant, and wetting agent, among other uses. In 2016 it was the 127th most prescribed medication in the United States with more than 5 million prescriptions.