What is Colace?
Colace makes stools softer and easier to pass. It is especially helpful for people who have had recent rectal surgery, people with heart problems, high blood pressure, hemorrhoids, or hernias, and women who have just had babies.
This drug is for short-term relief only, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. It can take a day or two (for some people 4-5 days) for Colace to achieve its maximum effect. Do not take Colace without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant, could become pregnant, or breast-feeding a baby. Some forms of Colace are formulated for use by children. Talk to your doctor before using this product to treat a child.
Children 6 to 12 years old: 1 capsule. Adults and children 12 years and older: 1 to 3 capsules. Swallow the tablets and capsules whole. Do not chew or crush them. The highest dose should be taken until the first bowel movement; thereafter, a lower dose should be taken for maintenance.
Do not use this product if you:
- have any abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting (unless advised by your doctor)
- are taking mineral oil or aspirin (unless advised by your doctor)
- have noticed a change in your bowel habits that has lasted for 2 weeks
- bleed from the rectum or you do not have a bowel movement after using this product. Stop using it and call your doctor; you may have a more serious condition. Do not use any laxative for more than a week without your doctor’s approval.
Colace Side Effects
Stop taking Colace and seek medical help immediately if these uncommon but serious side effects occur:
- an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
- rectal bleeding;
- severe abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting; or
- no bowel movement
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Colace and talk to your doctor if you experience:
- a bitter taste or throat irritation;
- skin rash;
- diarrhea; or
- mild nausea
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