Who can and cannot take or use docusate

Most adults and children aged 12 years and over can take docusate.

Never give docusate to a child under 12 years old unless their doctor prescribes it or a pharmacist recommends it.

Docusate is not suitable for some people. To make sure it's safe for you, tell your doctor or pharmacist before starting to take it if you have:

• ever had an allergic reaction to docusate or any other medicine
• a blockage in your gut (intestine)
• stomach pains
• been feeling sick or have vomited in the last 24 hours

Do not use a docusate enema if you have:

• piles (haemorrhoids) or bleeding from your bottom
• a tear or sore around your anus (anal fissure)
• ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease or any other inflammatory bowel condition
• paralytic ileus (when the muscles in your bowel are not able to move food and liquid along)