Peri-Colace

Uses

What is Peri Colace® (docusate and senna) used for?

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.

Peri Colace® is used to treat occasional constipation. Peri Colace® may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

How should I take Peri Colace® (docusate and senna)?

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. Peri Colace® 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 Peri Colace®.

How do I store Peri Colace® (docusate and senna)?

Peri Colace® is best stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store Peri Colace® in the bathroom or the freezer. There may be different brands of Peri Colace® that may have different storage needs. It is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush Peri Colace® down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. It is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before using Peri Colace® (docusate and senna)?

Before using this drug, tell your doctor if:

• You are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is because, while you are expecting or feeding a baby, you should only take medicines on the recommendation of a doctor.
• You are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, such as herbal and complementary medicines.
• You have allergy with any of active or inactive ingredients of Peri Colace® or other medications.
• You have any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

There are no adequate studies in women for determining risk when using Peri Colace® during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking Peri Colace®. Peri Colace® is pregnancy risk category N, according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

FDA pregnancy risk category reference below:

• A=No risk
• B=No risk in some studies
• C=There may be some risk
• D=Positive evidence of risk
• X=Contraindicated
• N=Unknown

Side effects

What side effects can occur from Peri Colace® (docusate and senna)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using docusate and senna and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• Rectal bleeding
• Severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting
• No bowel movement

Less serious side effects may include:

• Gas, bloating
• Diarrhea
• Mild nausea

Not everyone experiences these side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have any concerns about a side-effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with Peri Colace® (docusate and senna)?

Peri Colace® may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. For your safety, do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any drugs without your doctor’s approval.

Does food or alcohol interact with Peri Colace® (docusate and senna)?

Peri Colace® may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with Peri Colace® (docusate and senna)?

Peri Colace® may interact with your health condition. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. It is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have.

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using Peri Colace® (docusate and senna).

What is the dose of Peri Colace® (docusate and senna) for an adult?

Usual Adult Dose for Constipation – Acute

2 to 4 tablets orally daily in divided doses or as a single daily dose preferably in the evening.

What is the dose of Peri Colace® (docusate and senna) for a child?

Usual Pediatric Dose for Constipation – Acute

2 to 6 years: up to 1 tablet daily

6 to 12 years: 1 to 2 tablets daily

How is Peri Colace® (docusate and senna) available?

Peri Colace® is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

• Tablet

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to your nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of Peri Colace®, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.