What is Docusate Mini: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Docusate Mini overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Docusol, DocuSol Kids, Enemeez Mini Enema

Generic Names:

  • Docusate Mini

Uses:

  • Treats constipation.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Laxative, Stool Softener

Forms:

  • Enema, Suppository

How it’s taken:

  • Into the rectum

What is Docusate Mini used for?

What form(s) does Docusate Mini come in

  • Enema

  • Suppository

What are common Docusate Mini doses?

  • Tube 5ML of 283MG/5ML

How to take Docusate Mini

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.

  • Rectal routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine. Remove the foil or wrapper from the suppository before inserting it.

  • Shake the enema bottle gently just before each use. Remove the protective cap from the bottle tip.

  • Rectal routeLie on your left side with your left leg straight or slightly bent, and your right knee bent upward. Insert the applicator tip into your rectum about an inch. Gently squeeze the bottom of the bottle to release the enema.

  • Rectal routeRemove the bottle and throw it away.

  • Rectal routeYou may need to hold the liquid in your rectum for several minutes or hours. This may be difficult or feel uncomfortable. It should become easier to do as you continue to use the medicine.

  • Rectal routeNever take rectal suppositories by mouth.

  • Rectal routeTo make the suppository easier to insert, you may use a lubricating gel such as K-Y® Jelly, but do not use petroleum jelly (Vaseline®).

  • Rectal routeLie on your left side with your left leg straight or slightly bent, and your right knee bent upward. Gently push the pointed end of the suppository into the rectum about 1 inch.

  • Rectal routeKeep lying down for about 15 minutes to keep the suppository from coming out before it melts. Then, wash your hands again.

  • Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about diet and exercise while you are using this medicine. Drinking plenty of water and other fluids will also help soften your stools.

  • Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.

  • Rectal routeLie on your left side with your left leg straight or slightly bent, and your right knee bent upward. Insert the applicator tip into your rectum about an inch. Gently squeeze the bottom of the bottle to release the enema.

  • Rectal routeNever take rectal suppositories by mouth.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Shake the enema bottle gently just before each use. Remove the protective cap from the bottle tip.

  • Rectal routeKeep lying down for about 15 minutes to keep the suppository from coming out before it melts. Then, wash your hands again.

  • Rectal routeYou may need to hold the liquid in your rectum for several minutes or hours. This may be difficult or feel uncomfortable. It should become easier to do as you continue to use the medicine.

  • Rectal routeLie on your left side with your left leg straight or slightly bent, and your right knee bent upward. Gently push the pointed end of the suppository into the rectum about 1 inch.

  • Rectal routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine. Remove the foil or wrapper from the suppository before inserting it.

  • Rectal routeTo make the suppository easier to insert, you may use a lubricating gel such as K-Y® Jelly, but do not use petroleum jelly (Vaseline®).

  • Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about diet and exercise while you are using this medicine. Drinking plenty of water and other fluids will also help soften your stools.

  • Rectal routeRemove the bottle and throw it away.

What to do if you miss a dose of Docusate Mini

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

  • Rectal routeYou may store the suppositories in the refrigerator, but do not freeze them.

  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Docusate Mini contraindications

  • You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to docusate, or if you have a bowel disorder such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. Do not use this medicine if you have had stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting for longer than 1 week.

Docusate Mini warnings

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.

  • Do not use this medicine for longer than 1 week unless your doctor tells you to.

  • Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain after using the medicine.

  • No bowel movement within 3 days after using this medicine.

Docusate Mini interactions

  • Do not use this medicine together with aspirin or mineral oil unless your doctor tells you to.

  • Do not use this medicine for longer than 1 week unless your doctor tells you to.

Docusate Mini side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Bleeding from your rectum, bloody or black tarry stool.

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • No bowel movement within 3 days after using this medicine.

  • Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain after using the medicine.

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Mild nausea or diarrhea.

  • Itching or irritation around your rectum.

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