Docusate
Laxatives/stool softeners / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Docusate is the common chemical and pharmaceutical name of the anion bis(2-ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate, also commonly called dioctyl sulfosuccinate (DOSS).[2][3][4]
Clinical data | |
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Trade names | Colace, Ex-Lax Stool Softener, others |
Other names | Dioctyl sulfosuccinate |
AHFS/Drugs.com | Monograph |
MedlinePlus | a601113 |
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Routes of administration | By mouth, rectal |
Drug class | Stool softener |
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Pharmacokinetic data | |
Onset of action | 12 hrs to 5 days[1] |
Duration of action | 3 days[1] |
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E number | E480 (thickeners, ...) |
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ECHA InfoCard | 100.008.553 |
Chemical and physical data | |
Formula | C20H37O7S |
Molar mass | 421.57 g·mol−1 |
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Density | 1.1 g/cm3 |
Melting point | 153 to 157 °C (307 to 315 °F) 173-179 °C |
Solubility in water | 1 in 70 parts mg/mL (20 °C) |
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Salts of this anion, especially docusate sodium, are widely used in medicine as laxatives and as stool softeners, by mouth or rectally.[1] Some studies claim that docusate is not more effective than a placebo for improving constipation.[5][6][7][8] Other docusate salts with medical use include those of calcium and potassium.[9][1][2] Docusate salts are also used as food additives, emulsifiers, dispersants, and wetting agents, among other uses.[10]
It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines.[11] In 2021, it was the 133rd most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with more than 4 million prescriptions.[12][13] In 2021, the combination with senna was the 275th most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with more than 800,000 prescriptions.[12][14]