bisacodyl

Brand name(s):

Alophen, Bisa-Plex, Bisac-Evac, Bisco-Lax, Bisolax, Carters Little Pills, Colax, Dulcogen, Dulcolax, Evac-U-Gen, Fleet Bisacodyl, Modane

What is the most important information I should know about bisacodyl?

Do not use bisacodyl if you have stomach (abdominal) pain, nausea, or vomiting, unless directed by a doctor.

If you notice a sudden change in bowel habits that persists over a period of 2 weeks, consult your healthcare provider before using a laxative.

Bisacodyl products should not be used for longer than one week, unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider.

Rectal bleeding or failure to have a bowel movement after use of a laxative may indicate a more serious condition. Stop using bisacodyl and contact your healthcare provider.

What is bisacodyl?

Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative. It causes muscles in the colon to contract and stools to pass.

Bisacodyl is used to treat constipation and to cause evacuation of the colon.

Bisacodyl may also have uses other than those listed in this product guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking bisacodyl?

Do not take bisacodyl without first talking to your doctor if you have abdominal (stomach) pain, nausea, or vomiting. You may not be able to take bisacodyl or you may require special monitoring.

If you notice a sudden change in bowel habits that persists over a period of 2 weeks, consult your healthcare provider before using a laxative.

Do not take bisacodyl without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. Do not take bisacodyl without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Some forms of bisacodyl are formulated for use by children. Talk to the child's doctor before using this product to treat a child.

How should I take bisacodyl?

Take bisacodyl exactly as directed by your doctor or as directed on the package. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

Swallow the tablets and capsules whole. Do not chew or crush them.

Do not take bisacodyl tablets within 1 hour after taking an antacid or drinking milk.

Bisacodyl is also available as a rectal suppository. To use a rectal suppository:

If the suppository seems soft, hold it (in its wrapping) under cold water for one or two minutes before use.
Remove the wrapper. If directed, moisten the suppository with water or petroleum jelly.
Lie on your side and with the pointed end first, push the suppository into the rectum so it will not slip out.
Retain the suppository for 15 to 20 minutes. If you feel the suppository must come out immediately, it was not inserted high enough and should be pushed further into the rectum.

Bisacodyl is also available for use as a rectal enema. To use a rectal enema:

Shake the bottle gently to make sure the suspension is mixed. Remove the protective cap from the applicator tip. Holding the bottle at the neck will not cause any of the medication to come out.
Gently insert the tip into the rectum, pointing toward the belly button (umbilicus). A steady squeezing of the bottle will discharge most of the medication.

Bisacodyl enema usually produces a bowel movement in 15 to 20 minutes. Bisacodyl suppositories usually produce a bowel movement in 15 minutes to one hour. Bisacodyl tablets usually produce a bowel movement in 6 to 12 hours. Do not take bisacodyl for more than 1 week unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Store bisacodyl at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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