Drug Name

Dulcolax (Bisacodyl)

Drug Uses

Dulcolax is a stimulant laxative that is used to treat occasional constipation and irregularity in bowel movements.

How it is taken

Dulcolax can be taken by mouth with or without food. The pill must be swallowed whole without crushing or chewing with a full glass of water. If you are taking antacids or milk, then do not take Dulcolax within 1 hour after taking it. The best way to use the drug is as recommended by your doctor.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Being a stimulant laxative, Dulcolax acts directly on the bowel muscles and stimulates a bowel movement.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Dulcolax then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature (between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.

Warnings/Precautions

You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or have severe stomach pain, appendicitis, severe constipation, stomach, intestinal, or rectal bleeding, or intestinal blockage, cannot swallow without chewing, having abdominal surgery.

Dulcolax should not be used for longer than 1 week without checking with your doctor. Using it for a long time may result in dependency and loss of normal bowel function.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Dulcolax and contact your doctor immediately.

It is unknown whether Dulcolax is excreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Dulcolax should not be used in children less than 6 years of age as the safety and effectiveness of the drug have not been confirmed yet.

If you notice Rectal bleeding or failure to have a bowel movement within 12 hours after use of a laxative, then stop using it and contact your doctor immediately.

It has been noted that elderly patients are more sensitive to the side effects of the drug. They might need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring throughout the treatment.

Stop using it and contact your doctor if you develop nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain.

If you notice a sudden change in bowel habits that persists for more than 2 weeks, then contact your doctor immediately

Possible Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of are cramps, faintness, stomach discomfort. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue).

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.

More Information

Dulcolax is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.