0

Home > Drug Category > Laxatives & Antidiarrhea > Dulcolax and Equivalent

Dulcolax Information

Dulcolax (Bisacodyl) is a stimulant laxative used for the short-term relief of occasional constipation. It is also used to clear the bowels prior to certain medical procedures such as colonoscopies, radiologic examinations, or surgical procedures requiring an empty colon. The active ingredient is bisacodyl, a diphenylmethane derivative, which belongs to the stimulant laxative class of medications. Unlike fiber supplements that bulk up the stool or softeners that add moisture, bisacodyl takes a more direct approach. It acts on the colon's mucosal lining to stimulate the enteric nerves. This increases peristalsis, which is the wave-like muscle contractions that move waste through the digestive tract. It also promotes the accumulation of water and electrolytes in the colonic lumen, facilitating the easier passage of stool.

In constipation, there is a state of delayed colonic transit where stool becomes hard, dry, and difficult to expel. Bisacodyl helps by stimulating the smooth muscles of the gut, forcing the contractions necessary to move waste along. However, for bowel clearance, the goal is to remove all fecal matter so a clinician can clearly visualize the intestinal wall. By inducing a series of rapid, watery bowel movements, the drug ensures that the colon is sufficiently clean for diagnostic tools to detect polyps or other abnormalities.

Dulcolax Side Effects

Some common mild side effects of this medication include abdominal cramps, pain, or discomfort, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Contact your doctor if these mild side effects persist or worsen.

Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, body itching, body rash, skin blistering, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Blood in the stool;
• Dehydration with symptoms like dry, sticky mouth; thirst, decreased urine production;
• Dizziness;
• Fainting;
• Rectal discomfort or pain;
• Symptoms of intestinal irritation, such as severe abdominal cramping and diarrhea.

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Dulcolax Precautions

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to bisacodyl or any other ingredients in Dulcolax. Before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Dehydration;
• Gastrointestinal conditions like appendicitis, intestinal obstructions, and inflammatory bowel diseases;
• Lactose/galactose intolerance;
• Rectal conditions such as anal fissure, ulcerative proctitis

Do not use bisacodyl for more than seven consecutive days unless specifically directed by a doctor, as doing so may cause dependence. This medication is not generally recommended for use in pregnant women. It is typically used as a second line in the management of constipation in pregnant women. There's not much data about the use of bisacodyl in breastfeeding women, but it's not expected to pass into breast milk. This medication is not recommended for use in children younger than 4 years. Long-term or high-dose use of bisacodyl alongside water pills (like furosemide) or steroids can increase the risk of hypokalemia (low potassium), which can affect heart rhythm and muscle function. Therefore, before using this laxative, it is important to inform your doctor about any other medications you are currently taking, including herbal medications and supplements, to determine if it is safe to use along with bisacodyl.

Swallow the oral tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the enteric coating, as this causes severe stomach irritation. Take the dose at bedtime to ensure a bowel movement the following morning. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose of this medication for you, depending on your condition. Avoid consuming dairy products or antacids within one hour of taking the medication to prevent the pill from dissolving too early. If using the rectal suppository, insert the pointed end first into the rectum. The suppositories have a faster onset of action, with effects starting within 15 minutes to 1 hour of insertion. The tablet takes about 6-12 hours to work. Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Dulcolax?

No, a prescription is not required from your physician to order Dulcolax.