DOCUSATE
Patient Counselling
· Advise patient that stool softeners typically work within 1 – 2 days but may take as long as 3 – 5 days. Patient should report no improvement beyond 5 days.
· Adverse effects include bitter taste in mouth, diarrhea, nausea, cramping
· Patient should report rectal bleeding
· Patient should maintain adequate hydration during drug therapy.
· Oral formulation should not be taken concurrently with mineral oil, unless directed by a healthcare professional.