Docusate belongs to a class of medications called laxatives which can soften stool by reducing the surface tension of the oil-water interface. Therefore, Docusate can be used for constipation and cleaning ear wax.
Docusate is available in its sodium form in Hong Kong and can be taken as oral capsules or instilled into the ears with ear drops.
Constipation
Child above 12 years of age, adult and elderly
Docusate oral capsules: 50-360 mg once daily or in divided doses.
Child between 2-12 years of age
Docusate oral capsules: 50-150 mg once daily or in divided doses.
Cleaning ear wax
Child, adult and elderly
Docusate ear drops: Instill enough drops into the affected ear once before sleep and use it for at most 2 consecutive nights.
Common side effects of Docusate include atonic non-functioning colon, hypokalaemia, ear pain, diarrhea, application site irritation, skin rash and itchiness.
Common dosing schedule:
Oral Docusate is taken once daily or in divided doses, like once in the morning and once after dinner.
The ear drop is preferably used before bedtime.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Docusate may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Docusate is an over-the-counter medicine and can be purchased without a prescription from any retail outlet in Hong Kong. This includes grocery stores, convenience stores, medicine shops, and pharmacies. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Docusate in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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