Docusate sodium (Dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate, DSS)

Docusate sodium (Dioctyl sodium
sulfosuccinate, DSS): Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• An anionic surfactant that functions as an emulsifier, moisturizing agent, and dispersant.

Uses of Docusate sodium (Dioctyl sodium
sulfosuccinate, DSS)

• Constipation and ceruminous otitis.

Dose of Docusate sodium (Dioctyl sodium
sulfosuccinate, DSS) in Dogs and Cats

Dogs:

• Constipation: 50–100 mg p.o. q12–24h or 10–15 ml of 5% solution mixed with 100 ml of water instilled per rectum prn.
• Otitis: a few drops in the affected ear q8–12h or 5–15 min prior to flushing.

Cats:

• Constipation: 50 mg p.o. q12–24h or 2 ml of a 5% solution mixed with 50 ml of water instilled per rectum prn.
• Otitis: dose as for dogs

Side Effects of Docusate sodium (Dioctyl sodium
sulfosuccinate, DSS) in Dogs and Cats

• Avoid the concurrent use of docusate and mineral oil.

Contraindications of Docusate sodium (Dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate, DSS) in Dogs and Cats

• Intestinal obstruction