GENERIC NAME: BISACODYL - ORAL (biss-ACK-oh-dill)
BRAND NAME(S): Carter's Little Pills, Dulcolax
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat constipation or to clean out the intestinal tract before bowel examinations or bowel surgery.
HOW TO USE: Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water or juice. Do not crush or chew the tablets. The tablets should work within 6 to 10 hours. Do not take the tablets within one hour of taking any milk or dairy products. Severe stomach cramps and vomiting may occur. Bisacodyl should not be used longer than seven days without consulting your doctor. Prolonged use can lead to laxative dependence. Because this medication must be swallowed whole, do not give it to a child less than 6 years of age.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause stomach ache, cramping, weakness, sweating, irritation of the rectal area, diarrhea, or dizziness. Notify your doctor if you experience: chest pain, fainting, rectal bleeding, lack of a bowel movement (especially after using this medicine). If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: If you have any of the following conditions, do not take bisacodyl without consulting your doctor: severe nausea, vomiting, stomach/intestinal problems, recent abdominal surgery, rectal bleeding, vitamin/mineral deficiencies, appendicitis, gastritis, an allergic reaction to this medication. Frequent use of laxatives can cause dehydration and loss of essential nutrients. Symptoms can include muscle cramps, muscle weakness or dizziness. Maintain adequate fluid intake while using this medication. Before using bisacodyl, tell your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known if bisacodyl is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Constipation - Read details about constipation and the different treatments available for constipation including laxatives, dietary fiber, enemas, suppositories, drugs, and surgery.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children - Read about irritable bowel syndrome in children symptoms such as abodminal pain, bloating dirrhea, constipation, change in appearance of stool, mucus in the stool, and more.
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