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Enemeez plus

docusate / benzocaine
Used for Constipation
Used for Constipation

Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) is an over-the-counter (OTC) enema used to treat occasional constipation. It contains 2 active ingredients: docusate (a stool softener) and benzocaine (an anesthetic for pain relief). This medication can be used by people ages 2 and older, but younger children should only use it after their caregiver speaks with a pediatrician. It can be used 1 to 3 times daily and usually works within 15 minutes. Most people have few to no side effects when using Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) as directed.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Ally Tsai, PharmD
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
Last reviewed on January 21, 2025
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageCostAlternativesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine)?

What is Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) used for?

How Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) works

Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) is a combination of two medications:

Are you looking for information on Enemeez (docusate) enema or docusate (Colace) oral capsules or liquid solution instead?
When does Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
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Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsEnemeez Plus, DocuSol Plus
Drug ClassStool softener / Anesthetic
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityOver-the-counter
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Avg retail price
$92.56(save 52.95%)
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$43.55
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What are the side effects of Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Rectal bleeding: blood on the toilet paper when you wipe, red-colored water in the toilet, blood mixed in with or on the outside of your stool
  • Serious allergic reaction: rash, itching, dizziness, swelling of the throat, trouble breathing

Source: DailyMed

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine)

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Pros

Available as an OTC medication

Works within 2 to 15 minutes to relieve constipation

Generally well tolerated

Eases pain for people with painful bowel movements

thumbs-down

Cons

Might be difficult for some people to use

Typically only be used short term

Not for severe or chronic constipation

Young children need pediatrician approval before use

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine)

pharmacist

  • Let a healthcare professional (HCP) know if you have nausea or vomiting before using Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine). These symptoms can cause dehydration and worsen constipation. Stay hydrated while using Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) to further help relieve constipation.

    • If you've been using Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) for more than a week, speak with your HCP. Using this medication for a longer than recommended can cause your body to rely on it to have bowel movements.

      • If you have stomach pain or a sudden change in your bowel movements that last for more than 2 weeks before using Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine), talk to your HCP. They might need to rule out any serious medical conditions.

        • Don't use mineral oil with Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine). Doing so can cause your body to absorb more mineral oil, which might lead to more side effects.

          • If you experience rectal bleeding or don’t have a bowel movement after using Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine), stop using it and let your care team know. This could be a sign of a serious problem.

            • Stop using Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) and talk to your HCP if you feel resistance while inserting the tube. Forcing it can cause injury or damage to your rectum. If the product isn’t used correctly, serious problems can develop.

              • Store Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) up and away, out of children's reach and sight to prevent accidental swallowing. If you think a child might have swallowed Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine), call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 right away.

                How to use Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine):

                • Twist off and remove the tip from the tube. Then place a few drops of water or the product on the shaft of the applicator and into the rectum to make insertion easier and more comfortable.

                  • Lie on your left side with your knees bent. You can also try other positions, like sitting on the toilet or kneeling with your left arm folded comfortably and lowering your head and chest until the side of your face is resting on a surface.

                    • With steady pressure, gently insert the tube into the rectum. Be careful to avoid damage to the rectal wall.

                      • Squeeze the applicator to empty all of the medication into your rectum. Keep squeezing as you remove it. Throw away the empty applicator in regular trash.

                        • Stay in the same position until you feel a strong urge to go to the bathroom. This usually happens in 2 to 15 minutes, so you might want to stay near a toilet.

                          faqs

                          Frequently asked questions about Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine)

                          Can I use Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) during pregnancy?
                          Maybe. The docusate in Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) is generally considered safe for short-term use during pregnancy, but benzocaine hasn’t been well studied in pregnancy. If you're pregnant, experts at the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommend getting 25 grams of fiber daily to help prevent constipation. Try eating more foods with fiber, like apples, bananas, lentils, or split peas, before taking medications for constipation. Always talk to your OB-GYN provider first to discuss the benefits and risks of using any constipation medication during pregnancy.
                          Is Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) a laxative?
                          Yes. Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) contains docusate, which is a stool softener. Stool softeners are a type of laxative, specifically part of a group called emollient laxatives. It works by pulling water and fat into your gut to soften your stool, making it easier to pass. Speak with a healthcare professional (HCP) if you need help choosing the best medication for you.
                          Where can I buy Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine)?
                          Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) is available OTC at a pharmacy. You don't need a prescription from your HCP. If you've trouble finding this medication, ask your pharmacist for help.
                          How long does it take for Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) to work?
                          Most people who use Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) will have a bowel movement within 2 to 15 minutes. If you don't have a bowel movement after 15 minutes, talk to your HCP right away. They might check to see if your constipation is caused by a more serious condition.
                          Can kids use Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine)?
                          You can give Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) to your child if they are 12 years and older. For children under 12, talk to their pediatrician before using Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine). If appropriate, the typical dose for children 2 to 11 years old is no more than 1 enema per day. Always follow the instructions on the package for safe use.
                          What's the difference between Enemeez Plus and Enemeez?
                          Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) and Enemeez (docusate) are both enemas that contain the active ingredient docusate. The main difference is that Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) also includes 20 mg of benzocaine, a local pain reliever that numbs the rectum. This makes Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) a good option for certain people, like those who have pain around the area or painful bowel movements. Talk to your HCP if you have questions about comparing these two medications.
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                          What are the risks and warnings for Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine)?

                          Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                          risk-warning

                          For rectal use only

                          Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) should only be used rectally. It's an enema, not a suppository. Don't take this medication by mouth. If you think that your child might have accidentally swallowed this medication, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 right away.

                          risk-warning

                          Serious allergic reaction to benzocaine

                          Don't use Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) if you're allergic to benzocaine, one of its ingredients. Watch out for signs and symptoms of allergic reactions, such as hives, shortness of breath, swelling of your face, lips, or throat. Get medical attention right away if you have any of these symptoms.

                          risk-warning

                          Interaction with mineral oil

                          Don't use mineral oil with Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) because it can cause your body to absorb more mineral oil, raising your risk of serious side effects. Consider letting your primary care provider or pharmacist know about all the medications you're taking, including OTC products and supplements, before starting Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine). Talk with your care team if you have any questions about potential interactions.

                          dosage

                          Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) dosage forms

                          The average cost for 1 carton of 30 mini-enemas of 283mg/20mg of Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) is $43.55 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 52.95% off the average retail price of $92.56.
                          carton
                          Carton
                          DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                          5 mini-enemas of 283mg/20mg6 cartons$106.25$17.71
                          30 mini-enemas of 283mg/20mg1 carton$43.55$43.55

                          Typical dosing for Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine)

                          There are different manufacturers of docusate / benzocaine enema, and the strength, dose, and age recommendations can vary depending on the product. Always read the box for specific instructions.

                          Enemeez Plus: Each enema contains 283 mg of docusate and 20 mg of benzocaine.

                          • Adults and children 12 years and older: Insert and squeeze 1 enema into the rectum 1 to 3 times a day.

                          • Children 2 to 11 years old: Talk to your child's pediatrician first. The typical dose is to insert and squeeze 1 enema into the rectum once a day.

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                          How much does Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine) cost?

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                          Enemeez plus (brand)
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                          alternatives

                          What are alternatives to Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine)?

                          There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                          Enemeez plus (docusate / benzocaine)
                          Used for:
                          $43.55 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          Saline enema (Fleet Enema)
                          Used for:

                          • Occasional constipation

                          $3.04 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          Enemeez (docusate)
                          Used for:
                          $43.55 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices

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                          References

                          Best studies we found

                          American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2020). What can help with constipation during pregnancy?

                          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). About the PROTECT Initiative.

                          Hannoodee, S., et al. (2023). Docusate. StatPearls.

                          View All References (5)

                          MedlinePlus. (2023). Dehydration.

                          Mother To Baby. (2023). Benzocaine. Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS). 

                          National Health Service. (2024). Side effects of docusate.

                          Quest Products, LLC. (2024). Enemeez Plus- docusate sodium and benzocaine liquid [package insert]. DailyMed.

                          Singh, R., et al. (2024). Benzocaine. StatPearls.

                          GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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