Generic Name: docusate and senna (DOK yoo sate and SEN a)Brand Names: Doc-Q-Lax, Doculax, Dok Plus, Gentlax S, Peri-Colace, Senna Plus, Senna S, Sennalax-S, Senokot S, SenoSol-SS
Docusate is a stool softener. It makes bowel movements softer and easier to pass.
Senna is a laxative. It stimulates muscle movement in the intestines.
The combination of docusate and senna is used to treat occasional constipation.
Docusate and senna may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about Dok Plus (docusate and senna)?Use this medication as directed on the label, or as your doctor has prescribed. Do not use the medication in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to docusate and senna, or if you are also taking mineral oil.Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using docusate and senna if you have nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, a sudden change in bowel habits, or an intestinal disorder (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis).
Do not use this medication without your doctor's advice if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Do not take this medication for longer than 7 days in a row. Call your doctor if your constipation does not improve or if it gets worse. Stop taking this docusate and senna and call your doctor at once if you have rectal bleeding, severe stomach pain, nausea and vomiting, or if you do not have a bowel movement. Do not use any other over-the-counter laxatives or other stool softener without first asking your doctor or pharmacist.What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Dok Plus (docusate and senna)?You should not use this medication if you are allergic to docusate and senna, or if you are also taking mineral oil.Ask a doctor or pharmacist about using docusate and senna if you have:
nausea or vomiting;
stomach pain;
a sudden change in bowel habits that lasts for 2 weeks or longer; or
if you have an intestinal disorder such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.
Take this medication with a full glass of water.It may be best to take this medication at night or at bedtime. Docusate and senna should cause you to have a bowel movement within 6 to 12 hours.
Do not take this medication for longer than 7 days in a row, unless your doctor tells you to. Call your doctor if your constipation does not improve or if it gets worse after taking docusate and senna. Store docusate and senna at room temperature away from moisture and heat.Since docusate and senna is taken as needed, you are not likely to be on a dosing schedule. If you are taking the medication regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or diarrhea.
rectal bleeding;
severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting; or
no bowel movement.
Less serious side effects may include:
gas, bloating;
diarrhea; or
mild nausea.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
There may be other drugs that can interact with docusate and senna. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.