Enemeez
Docusate sodium mini enema, also known as Enemeez (a brand name), is an over-the-counter (OTC) rectal medication used to treat occasional constipation. It's a stool softener that works by drawing water and fat into the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. This medication can be used in people ages 2 and older, up to 3 times daily (instructions depend on the product). It usually works within 15 minutes. Most people experience little to no side effects while using Enemeez (docusate) as directed.
What is Enemeez (docusate)?
What is Enemeez (docusate) used for?
- Occasional constipation
How Enemeez (docusate) works
Enemeez (docusate) is a stool softener. It pulls water and fat into your stool, making it softer. This helps the stool move through your gut, making it easier to empty your bowels to relieve constipation.
Drug facts
Side effects of Enemeez (docusate)
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
Enemeez (docusate) 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
The following Enemeez (docusate) side effects have also been reported
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Rectal pain, burning, or bleeding after use
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
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Pros and cons of Enemeez (docusate)
Pros
- Available as an OTC medication
- Works within 2 to 15 minutes to relieve constipation
- Generally well tolerated
Cons
- Might be difficult for some people to use
- Typically only be used short term
- Not for severe or chronic constipation
Pharmacist tips for Enemeez (docusate)
- Tell your care team if you have nausea or vomiting before using Enemeez (docusate). These symptoms could be a sign of a more serious issue. They can also cause dehydration, which might worsen constipation.
- If you've been using Enemeez (docusate) for more than a week, speak with your care team. Using the medication longer than directed can make your body 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 (docusate), talk to your HCP. They might need to rule out any serious medical conditions.
- Don't use mineral oil along with Enemeez (docusate). Combining them can make your body absorb too much mineral oil, raising your risk for side effects.
- If you experience rectal bleeding or don’t have a bowel movement after using Enemeez (docusate), stop using it and let your care team know. This could be a sign of a serious problem.
- Store Enemeez (docusate) up and away, out of children's reach and sight to prevent accidental swallowing. If you think a child might have swallowed Enemeez (docusate), call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 right away.
How to use Enemeez (docusate):
- 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.
Common questions about Enemeez (docusate)
Adults and children 12 years and older can use up to 3 units of Enemeez per day. Children 2 to 12 years can use up to 1 unit of Enemeez Kids per day. If you haven't had a bowel movement after using this product, check with a healthcare professional to make sure there are no other serious conditions going on.
It takes about 2 to 15 minutes for Enemeez (docusate) to work. Make sure to stay near a bathroom in case of a bowel movement.
Enemeez (docusate) typically works within minutes, creating a strong urge to go to the bathroom. The medication itself isn't absorbed into your body, so it doesn't stay in your system.
Enemeez (docusate) is an OTC medication and can be purchased at any pharmacy. Ask your local pharmacist if you have trouble finding this medication.
Enemeez (docusate) is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy, but it's always a good idea to talk to your OB-GYN provider first. Experts at the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommend aiming for 25 grams of fiber per day from your diet to prevent constipation. Try eating more foods with fiber like apples, bananas, lentils, or split peas before taking medication to treat constipation.
Enemeez (docusate) and bisacodyl enema work differently to relieve constipation. Enemeez (docusate) is a stool softener that pulls water and fat into the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. Bisacodyl enema, on the other hand, stimulates the muscles in your gut to help move stool through and empty your bowels. Both can relieve constipation within minutes: 2 to 15 minutes Enemeez (docusate) and 5 to 20 minutes for bisacodyl enema. Speak to a healthcare professional if you have questions about which medication is best for you.
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Risks and warnings for Enemeez (docusate)
Enemeez (docusate) 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.
For rectal use only
Enemeez (docusate) should only be used rectally. Don't take this medication by mouth, and never use it in your eyes, nose, or ears. If you think that your child might have accidentally swallowed this medication, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 right away.
Interaction with mineral oil
Don't use mineral oil with Enemeez (docusate) 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 (docusate). Talk with your care team if you have any questions about potential interactions.
Enemeez (docusate) dosage
Carton| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 mini-enemas of 283mg | 1 carton | $43.55 | $43.55 |
| 5 mini-enemas of 283mg | 6 cartons | $34.82 | $5.80 |
Typical dosage for Enemeez (docusate)
There are different manufacturers of docusate sodium enema, and the strength, dose, and age recommendations can vary depending on the product. Always read the box for specific instructions.
Enemeez: Each enema contains 283 mg of docusate sodium.
- Adults and children 12 years and older: Insert and squeeze 1 enema into the rectum 1 to 3 times a day.
- Children under 12 years: Ask your child's pediatrician.
Enemeez Kids: Each enema contains 100 mg of docusate sodium.
- Children 2 to 12 years: Insert and squeeze 1 enema into the rectum once a day.
- Children under 2 years: Ask your child's pediatrician.
How much does Enemeez (docusate) cost?
$34.82
Enemeez (docusate) contraindications
Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Enemeez (docusate) will not be safe for you to take.
- Currently have stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting
- Using longer than 1 week unless directed by a healthcare professional
What are alternatives to Enemeez (docusate)?
Enemeez (docusate) images
