Docusate

What is docusate?

Docusate (Docusate Sodium Bloat Preparation, DSS, Dioctynate®, Pet-Enema®, Enema SA®, Docu-Soft®, Anti Gaz, Bloat Eze, Bloat Go, Bloat Release, Bloat Treatment, Bloat-Lax) is a laxative medication used to soften dry or hard stools and assist with constipation and bloating in animals.

Dioctynate® is labelled for use in the ears of dogs and cats to aid in the removal of ear wax.

Docusate is prescribed by veterinarians for use in dogs, cats, horses, cattle, goats, sheep, and rabbits. Various forms of the medication are available over-the-counter, especially for livestock and horses. Docusate is not recommended for use in reptiles due to the potential for fatalities in these species.

"Docusate is not recommended for use in reptiles due to the potential for fatalities in these species."

There are several human formulations that may be prescribed off-label for use in animals. Docusate formulations for humans are available as over-the-counter medications. Do not use these without consultation from your veterinarian.

Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How do I give my pet docusate?

• Docusate comes as oral tablets, capsules, soft gels, and liquid suspension or syrup for oral use.
• Docusate also comes as liquid formulations for rectal use as an enema.
• Liquid docusate can be used to treat ear infections.
• Oral formulations are given by mouth (orally), on an empty stomach, one hour before or two hours after a meal.
• This medication tastes bitter. if you have difficulty getting your animal to take the medicine, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist for tips.
• If vomiting occurs when dosed on an empty stomach, give future doses with food or a treat.
• Measure liquid forms of this medication carefully.
• Suspensions for horses, cattle, or ruminants may be given through a tube from the mouth or nostril directly into the stomach.
• Docusate for ear infections is given by dropping the solution on or into the outer ear canal.
• Do not change the dosage form without consulting your veterinarian, as the strength of each product varies, and the doses may not be the same.

This medication should take effect within 1-2 days and improvement in clinical signs should follow.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose of docusate, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects from docusate?

Docusate may cause the following side effects:

• abdominal cramping, loose stools, diarrhea
• irritation of the mouth and/or throat from oral liquid preparations.
• irritation around the rectum

Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects may be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease. 

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

This medication should NOT BE USED in animals that:

• are allergic to it or have had poor reactions to it previously 
• have a blockage within their intestines

This medication should be USED WITH CAUTION in pets who: 

• are also receiving mineral oil
• are dehydrated
• have blood electrolyte imbalances

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Certain medications may interact with docusate and so it is important to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your dog is taking before starting any new treatment.

Several medications should be used with caution when given with docusate, including:

• mineral oil
• tetracyclines

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any side effects occur, discontinue use of the medication and contact your veterinarian. 
• Your veterinarian will let you know when they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.

How do I store docusate?

• You will store docusate differently depending on the format dispensed. Store according to label instructions on the product. 
• Most formats should be stored in a childproof container.
• Most formats should be stored in a cool, dry place, at room temperature, away from heat and direct sunlight.
• Keep all medication out of reach of children and pets.
• Cooler temperatures cause product to become cloudy. Place in warm water or bring to room temperature.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.