DOCUSATE CALCIUM Meaning and
Definition
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Docusate calcium is a pharmaceutical agent primarily used as a stool softener and lubricant. It is commonly prescribed to relieve constipation, specifically in cases where straining during bowel movements may be detrimental, such as after surgery or for individuals with certain medical conditions.
Docusate calcium works by increasing the amount of water that enters the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. It achieves this by inhibiting the absorption of water in the intestines and by promoting the secretion of water and fats into the stool. This helps to prevent dry, hard stools that can cause discomfort and difficulty during defecation.
As a calcium-based formulation, docusate calcium also provides the added benefit of supplementing the body's calcium levels. It is important to note that docusate calcium is not intended for long-term use and should be used only as directed by a healthcare professional.
Common brand names for docusate calcium include Surfak and Dulcolax Stool Softener. It is available in various forms such as tablets and capsules and is usually taken orally. The dosage and frequency of administration may vary depending on the individual's age, medical condition, and response to treatment.
Common Misspellings for DOCUSATE CALCIUM
- socusate calcium
- xocusate calcium
- cocusate calcium
- focusate calcium
- rocusate calcium
- eocusate calcium
- dicusate calcium
- dkcusate calcium
- dlcusate calcium
- dpcusate calcium
- d0cusate calcium
- d9cusate calcium
- doxusate calcium
- dovusate calcium
- dofusate calcium
- dodusate calcium
- docysate calcium
- dochsate calcium
- docjsate calcium
- docisate calcium
Etymology of DOCUSATE CALCIUM
The word "Docusate Calcium" is comprised of two main components: "Docusate" and "Calcium".
1. Docusate: The term "docusate" is derived from the chemical name "dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate". It was coined by combining parts of the chemical name to create a more manageable term. "Dioctyl" refers to the molecular structure of two extended chains of eight carbon atoms each, "sodium" represents the presence of sodium in the compound, and "sulfosuccinate" indicates the chemical structure of the compound. Over time, "dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate" was abbreviated to "docusate" for ease of use.
2. Calcium: The term "calcium" originates from the Latin word "calx", meaning "lime".
