Surfactol
Surfactol Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Food Interaction and all others data.
Surfactol acts primarily by increasing the penetration of fluid into the faeces. It may also have effects on intestinal fluid secretion, and probably act both as stimulant and faecal softening agent. It also softens ear wax through penetration into the dry matrix of the ceruminous mass, reducing it into semi-solid debris.
Surfactol sodium is a laxative and an anionic detergent that supposedly promotes incorporation of water and fats into stool through a reduction in surface tension, resulting in softer fecal mass . Surfactol's onset of action is 6-72 hours orally and 2-15 minutes rectally . The effects of docusate are thought to be exerted locally in the jejunum.
| Trade Name | Surfactol |
| Availability | Rx and/or OTC |
| Generic | Docusate |
| Docusate Other Names | Dioctyl sulfosuccinate, Docusate hydrogen |
| Related Drugs | MiraLAX, Colace, Linzess, bisacodyl, senna, magnesium oxide |
| Type | |
| Formula | C20H38O7S |
| Weight | Average: 422.577 Monoisotopic: 422.23382426 |
| Groups | Approved |
| Therapeutic Class | Stool softener |
| Manufacturer | |
| Available Country | South Africa |
| Last Updated: | September 19, 2023 at 7:00 am |
Uses
Surfactol is used for Constipation, Bowel evacuation, Softening of ear wax, Constipation
Surfactol is also used to associated treatment for these conditions: Constipation, Occasional Constipation, Bowel preparation therapy
How Surfactol works
Recent studies suggest that docusate's mechanism of action is due largely to it's surfactant effect in the intestines, which allow fat and water into the feces to soften the stool.
Surfactol’s mechanism of action was investigated in 1985 on healthy patients. Surfactol was added directly to the jejunum based on calculated concentrations of docusate in the jejunum. At this concentration, there was an increase in secretion of water, sodium, chloride, and potassium as well as a decrease in absorption of glucose and bicarbonate. Based on in vitro data, the authors suggested this effect was due to an increase in intracellular cyclic AMP either directly through docusate or E series prostaglandins.
Dosage
Surfactol dosage
Constipation:
- Adult: 50-300 mg daily in divided doses. Max: 500 mg daily.
- Child: ≥12 yr Same as adult dose.
Bowel evacuation:
- Adult: As adjunct to abdominal radiological procedures: 400 mg given with barium meal.
- Child: ≥12 yr Same as adult dose.
Side Effects
Anorectal pain or bleeding (rectal). Rarely, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, nausea, skin rash.
Toxicity
Surfactol is not known to be carcinogenic or cause reproductive toxicity. It was not mutagenic in the Ames assay . Acute oral LD50 in rat is 1900 mg/kg .
Precaution
Rectal admin in patient with haemorrhoids or anal fissures. Children. Pregnancy and lactation.
Interaction
May enhance GI uptake of other drugs (e.g. liquid paraffin). May increase effects of anthraquinone laxatives. Increased incidence of adverse effects in GI mucosa with aspirin.
Food Interaction
No interactions found.Surfactol Disease Interaction
Major: inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal obstruction disorders
Elimination Route
Surfactol is not absorbed systemically. As the actions of docusate are local and it is not absorbed, the pharmacokinetic parameters are not available.
Elimination Route
If docusate is systemically absorbed, it undergoes biliary excretion .
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding use
Pregnancy Category C. Either studies in animals have revealed adverse effects on the foetus (teratogenic or embryocidal or other) and there are no controlled studies in women or studies in women and animals are not available. Drugs should be given only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the foetus.
Contraindication
Presence of abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, intestinal obstruction. Perforation of ear drum or ear inflammation (otic).
Acute Overdose
Symptoms: Oral: Excessive loss of water and electrolytes. Otic: Skin irritation.
Management: Oral: Encourage patient to drink plenty of fluid. Replenish electrolyte loss where appropriate. Otic: Symptomatic treatment.
Storage Condition
Store between 15-30° C. Protect from freezing, heat, humidity and light.
Innovators Monograph
You find simplified version here Surfactol
Surfactol contains Docusate see full prescribing information from innovator Surfactol Monograph, Surfactol MSDS, Surfactol FDA label
FAQ
What is Surfactol used for?
Surfactol is used to treat constipation. It helps to soften your poo and makes your bowel movements easier if you have problems pooing (constipation).
How does Surfactol work?
Surfactol works by increasing the amount of water the stool absorbs in the gut, making the stool softer and easier to pass.
How safe is Surfactol?
Most adults and children aged 12 years and over can safely take docusate.
What are the common side effects of Surfactol?
Common side effects of Surfactol are include:
- Abdominal cramping.
- Stomach pain.
- Diarrhea.
- Excessive bowel activity.
- Intestinal obstruction.
- Throat irritation.
- Rash.
- Low electrolyte levels (excessive use)
Is Surfactol safe during pregnancy?
Surfactol has not been associated with adverse effects in pregnancy in a number of studies, and it is thus also considered safe to use.
Is Surfactol safe during breastfeeding?
Surfactol is usually safe to use this medicine while breastfeeding.
Can I drink alcohol with Surfactol?
Yes, you can drink alcohol with Surfactol.
When should be taken of Surfactol?
Surfactol usually at bedtime with a full glass (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) of water or juice, or as directed by your doctor.
How many time can I take Surfactol daily?
Capsules – the normal dose is 1 capsule, taken 3 times a day. Do not take more than 5 capsules in a day. Liquid – the normal dose is two or three 5ml spoonfuls.
Can I take Surfactol on an empty stomach?
Surfactol does not usually upset your stomach. You can take the capsules or liquid with or without food.
How long does Surfactol take to work?
Surfactol capsules and liquid normally take 1 or 2 days to work. The enema usually works after 5 to 20 minutes, so it's best to stay close to a toilet. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are still constipated after a week.
How long does Surfactol take to work?
The elimination half life of Surfactol is 16 hours. This means that the bowel stimulant medication is metabolized in the body and roughly half is gone after 16 hours with half the remaining medicine gone after another 16 hours.
Can I take Surfactol for a long time?
It's best to use Surfactol occasionally and for a few days at a time. Using laxatives like Surfactol for longer can lead to long term diarrhoea.
Who should not take Surfactol?
You should not use Surfactol if you are allergic to it. Ask a doctor or pharmacist if docusate is safe to use if you have: stomach pain; nausea;vomiting; or a sudden change in bowel habits that lasts over 2 weeks.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since docusate is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
What happen if I overdose on Surfactol?
Seek emergency medical attention. Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or diarrhea. Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, and diarrhea are the most common symptoms of a laxative overdose. Dehydration and electrolyte (body chemicals and minerals) imbalance are more common in children than adults.
What happen If I stop taking Surfactol?
Do not take more Surfactol than recommended or take for longer than seven days. Talk to your doctor before taking if you have any stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting, or have experienced a sudden change in bowel motions that has persisted for longer than two weeks.
Is Surfactol safe for kidney patients?
Surfactol is safe for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD.
Can Surfactol affects my liver?
There have been no cases of clinically apparent liver injury attributable to docusate published in the literature and, thus, significant liver injury from docusate must be exceedingly rare, if it occurs at all
Can Surfactol cause irregular heartbeat?
You may be more likely to experience side effects such as headache, low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, swelling, and fluid retention.
