Bisacodyl: Laxative Uses, Side Effects & Dosage (original) (raw)

Generic Name: bisacodyl

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

What is bisacodyl, and what is it used for?

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 are the side effects of bisacodyl?

Side effects of bisacodyl are

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What is the dosage for bisacodyl?

Tablets

Rectal suppository

Enema

Which drugs interact with bisacodyl?

There are no known significant drug interactions associated with taking bisacodyl.

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Pregnancy and breastfeeding

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 else should I know about bisacodyl?

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).

Summary

Bisacodyl is an over-the-counter medication used to treat constipation and irregular bowel movements. Side effects of bisacodyl include abdominal cramping, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, vertigo, rectal burning, and fluid and electrolyte imbalance. Bisacodyl has no known drug interactions. Consult your doctor before taking bisacodyl if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

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Medically Reviewed on 4/7/2023

References

FDA Prescribing Information