bisacodyl (Dulcolax)

Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative. It stimulates the muscles in the wall of the small intestine and colon to generate a bowel movement. It also alters water and electrolyte levels in intestines, increasing the level of fluids which also produce a laxative-like effect.

Bisacodyl is used for for temporary relief of occasional constipation and irregularity. This product generally produces bowel movement in 6 to 12 hours

What brand names are available for bisacodyl?

Dulcolax, Correctol, Bisacolax, Bisac-Evac, Alophen, Fleet Bisacodyl, Feen-A-Mint

Is bisacodyl available as a generic drug?

Yes

Do I need a prescription for bisacodyl?

No

Side effects of bisacodyl are

• abdominal cramping,
• diarrhea,
• nausea,
• vomiting,
• vertigo,
• rectal burning, and
• fluid and electrolyte imbalance.

Tablets

• Adults and children 12 years of age and older: Take 1 to 3 tablets (5 - 15 mg) by mouth as a single daily dose, with a glass of water.
• Children of ages 6 to under 12 years: Take 1 tablet by mouth as a single daily dose, with a glass of water.
• Children under 6 years of age: Ask a doctor.

Rectal suppository

• Adults and children 12 years of age and older: Unwrap and insert 1 suppository into rectum daily as a single dose. Retain for 15 to 20 minutes.
• Children of ages 6 to under 12 years: Unwrap and insert ½ suppository into rectum daily as a single dose.
• Children under 2 years of age: Ask a doctor.

Enema

• Adults and children 12 years of age and older: Use 1 bottle (1.25 oz) as a single dose.
• Children under 12 years of age: Ask a doctor.

No significant drug interactions.

There are no adequate studies done to determine safe and effective use of bisacodyl in pregnant women.

It is unknown whether bisacodyl is excreted in breast milk; therefore it must be used with caution in nursing mothers.

What preparations of bisacodyl-oral are available?

Bisacodyl is available as 5 mg enteric-coated oral tablets, a 10 mg rectal suppository, and an enema containing 10 mg of bisacodyl per 1.25 ounce of enema.

How should I keep bisacodyl-oral stored?

Bisacodyl tablets should be stored between 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F) and protected from humidity. Suppositories and enemas require storage below 30 C (86 F).