DulcoEase capsules contain the active ingredient docusate sodium, which is a type of medicine called a laxative.

Docusate works in two ways to relieve constipation. Firstly, it has a stool softening action. It lowers the surface tension of hard, dry stools that have accumulated in the bowel, allowing water to penetrate them. This makes the stools softer and easier to pass, thus reducing straining. This can be particularly helpful for people with haemorrhoids (piles) or an anal fissure.

Docusate also has a stimulant effect on the gut. It acts on the nerve endings in the walls of the large intestine (colon) and rectum, causing the muscles in the intestinal wall to contract more often and with increased force. When these muscles contract (a process known as peristalsis), this moves the contents of the intestine through the colon to the rectum so that the bowel can be emptied.

The dual action is effective at relieving constipation without straining. The capsules usually provide relief from constipation in one to two days.

DulcoEase capsules can also be used to empty the bowel prior to abdominal radiological procedures (X-rays, eg with barium meals).