Questions and Answers
What is the drug class of docusate sodium?
What is the primary use of docusate sodium?
Prevention of straining during defecation and relief of occasional constipation.
What is the mechanism of action of docusate sodium?
It reduces the surface tension of the oil-water interface of the stool, enhancing the incorporation of water and fat.
The typical dosage for adults taking docusate sodium is ___ mg per day.
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What are some rare adverse effects of docusate sodium?
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What should patients report immediately to their healthcare provider when taking docusate sodium?
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What is a contraindication for self-medication with docusate sodium?
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What nursing consideration is important when administering docusate sodium?
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When should a patient contact their healthcare provider before using docusate sodium?
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What should patients taking docusate sodium do if they experience rectal bleeding?
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Docusate sodium can potentially cause ___ in newborns following chronic maternal overuse.
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Study Notes
Docusate Sodium (Colace) Overview
- Docusate sodium is classified as a stool softener or laxative.
- It aids in preventing straining during defecation and alleviates constipation linked to hard, dry stools.
Mechanism of Action
- Operates by decreasing the surface tension of the oil-water interface in stool.
- Facilitates the mixture of water and fat, leading to softened stool.
Dosage Recommendations
- Adult and children over 12 years: Recommended dosage is between 50-500 mg per day.
- Children aged 6-12 years: Recommended dosage ranges from 40-120 mg per day.
Adverse Effects
- Rare side effects may include gastrointestinal cramping, diarrhea, and skin rashes.
- Liquid form can cause throat irritation.
Patient/Parent Guidance
- Immediate reporting to a healthcare provider is necessary if rectal irritation or bleeding occurs.
Contraindications
- Self-medication should not exceed 7 days.
- Should not be used when symptoms of abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, appendicitis, or other gastrointestinal conditions are present.
- Contraindicated with concurrent mineral oil usage, in patients with an acute surgical abdomen, or in cases of fecal impaction or obstruction.
Nursing Considerations
- Administer with a full glass of water or juice to enhance effectiveness.
Patient Education
- Educate on the importance of proper use and avoiding excessive intake.
- Recommend using laxatives only when needed, in the lowest effective dose, and avoiding cathartics.
When to Contact Healthcare Provider
- Advise seeking healthcare advice if stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or persistent bowel habit changes occur for over 14 days.
Drug Interactions
- Caution is advised when using docusate sodium with aspirin due to possible intestinal mucosal damage.
- Co-administration with mineral oil increases the gastrointestinal absorption of mineral oil.
Emergency Symptoms
- Patients should seek immediate medical help for symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness, fever, itching, severe cough, cyanosis, seizures, or swelling of the lips, face, tongue, and throat.
Discontinuation of Use
- Discontinue use and notify a healthcare provider promptly if rectal bleeding occurs or if no bowel movement is experienced for more than 7 days.
Mixing Instructions
- Liquid docusate sodium (50 mg per 5 ml) should be mixed with milk or fruit juice to minimize throat irritation; drinking with water is also acceptable but does not prevent irritation.
Effect on Newborns
- Chronic maternal overuse of docusate sodium during pregnancy has been associated with hypomagnesemia in newborns.
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Description
Test your knowledge on docusate sodium, a commonly used stool softener. This quiz includes definitions, uses, and the mechanism of action of the drug. Ideal for students in pharmacology or anyone interested in medications.
