Dioctyl (Docusate) 100mg Capsules - Pack of 100

Dioctyl 100mg Capsules contain docusate sodium, a medicine from a group called laxatives. It is usually taken to prevent and treat constipation that has lasted for a long time by helping to soften stools and make them easier to pass.

Dioctyl may also be used:

• To help you go to the toilet if you have piles (haemorrhoids), where straining can be painful.
• During certain types of stomach X-rays, when your doctor needs the bowel to be prepared.

Constipation treatment with Dioctyl should be additional to a healthy lifestyle and diet, such as increasing fluids, dietary fibre and exercise.

Pack size: 100 capsules.

Always take this medicine exactly as described in the leaflet or as your doctor/pharmacist has told you.

Adults and adolescents (12 years and older):

• Maximum dose: 5 capsules per day (you may need less).
• Take capsules one at a time at regular intervals throughout the day.
• Swallow capsules whole with a drink of water.
• Reduce the dose as your condition gets better.

If instructed for a stomach X-ray:

• You may be told to take 4 capsules. Your doctor will tell you exactly when to take them.

Children (0–11 years):

• Dioctyl is not suitable for children under 12 years.

If you take too many:

• Drink plenty of water and seek medical advice urgently (doctor or nearest hospital). 

Active ingredient (per capsule):

• Docusate sodium 100mg

Other ingredients:

Macrogol 400, propylene glycol, gelatin (175 bloom), purified water, glycerol, sorbitol, titanium dioxide (E171), quinoline yellow (E104), sunset yellow (E110), lecithin, isopropyl alcohol, medium-chain triglycerides.

Do not take Dioctyl if:

• You are allergic to docusate sodium or any ingredient.
• You have stomach pains, feel sick or have been sick in the last 24 hours, or you have a blocked bowel (intestinal obstruction).
• You have been told you cannot take fructose (this medicine contains sorbitol).

Warnings and precautions

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist before taking Dioctyl if:

• You need to take a laxative every day, or you have regular/constant stomach pain (other causes should be excluded).
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding (docusate sodium is excreted in breast milk and should be used with caution during breastfeeding).
• You are taking mineral oil (interaction risk).

Important excipient information

• Contains sorbitol (~26mg per capsule).
• Contains Sunset Yellow (E110), which may cause allergic reactions.
• Contains propylene glycol (11.5mg per capsule).

Possible side effects

Stop taking and speak to a healthcare professional if you get:

• Diarrhoea, feeling sick, or stomach cramps (rare).
• Skin rash or itching (pruritus) (frequency not known).

Side effects can also be reported via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.

Storage

Store below 25°C and keep in the original package to protect from moisture. Keep out of the sight and reach of children.