Aerosol OT

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. 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, the most effective and safe medicines needed in a health system. 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. Docusate is frequently used to treat constipation, and in painful anorectal conditions such as hemorrhoids and anal fissures, to help avoid pain caused by straining during bowel movements. However, the available evidence does not support its use for these purposes. Multiple studies have found docusate to be no more effective than a placebo for improving constipation. Others have found it to be less useful for the treatment of chronic constipation than psyllium. The medication may be given to people who are receiving opioid medication, although prolonged use may cause irritation of the gastrointestinal tract. Data supporting its efficacy in treating chronic constipation are lacking. Docusate sodium, when used with ear syringing, may help with earwax removal, particularly in the case of impaction.