This medication is also known under the following names in the USA and Canada:
Brand names:
- Alophen,
- Bisac-Evac,
- Bisco-Lax,
- Carters Little Pills,
- Correctol,
- Doxidan Tablet,
- Ducodyl,
- Dulcolax Laxative,
- Evac-U-Gen,
- Ex-lax Ultra,
- Feen-A-Mint,
- Fleet Bisacodyl,
- Gen Lax,
- Magic Bullet,
- Veracolate,
- Dulcogen,
- Bisa-Plex,
- Bisolax,
- Gentle Laxative,
- Laxative Gentle Suppositories,
- Correct (New Formula),
- Modane,
- Colax,
- Gentlax Tablet,
- Fematrol
Generic name:
- Bisacodyl oral,
- Bisacodyl rectal
Generic Medication For Sale - Bisacodyl
Product name | Dosage / Strength | |
---|---|---|
Bisacodyl Tablets | 5 mg | See Prices |
Bisacodyl Suppositories | 10 mg | See Prices |
Brand Medications For Sale
No Brand Medication Equivalents At The Moment |
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What is Bisacodyl?
Bisacodyl is a prescription oral tablet indicated for the treatment of occasional constipation and for clearing out the intestines before a bowel surgery/examination. It belongs to a class of drugs known as stimulant laxatives.
Active ingredients
Bisacodyl is the active ingredient in this medication and it belongs to a class of drugs known as stimulant laxatives. It is thought to work by stimulating the muscles of the colon to produce movement in the bowel and it also irritates the intestinal cells, thereby causing influx and retention of water in the intestines, bowel movement, and intestinal contractions.
Conditions treated
- This medication is used for the treatment of occasional constipation.
- This medication is used for cleaning out the bowel before major procedures such as colonoscopy and surgery.
This medication may also be used for other conditions not mentioned above.
Dosage
If you purchase this medication over the counter, you should read the package insert for instructions on how to take this medication or follow directions given by your doctor. If you are still unsure, you should ask your doctor or pharmacist.
There are many factors that are considered by the doctor when determining the dosage for your specific case such as the patient profile (age, body weight, other medication and other medical conditions), the condition being treated and response to treatment. Do not try to alter your dosage or use for longer than 7 days.
The tablet should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. Do not break, chew, or swallow. Do not take this medication within an hour of taking antacids or any milk products because they may dissolve the outer coating of the drug, thereby potentially causing and stomach upset.
Recommended dose for constipation:
- Adults and children older than 12: Take 1 to 2 (5 to 10mg) tablets at night in order to get a bowel movement the following morning.
- Children aged 6 to 12: Take one tablet at bedtime.
Recommended dose when used for cleaning the bowel before a medical test or surgery:
- Adults and children older than 12: Take 2 to 4 tablets the night before procedure. Insert one suppository rectally on the morning of the procedure.
- Children aged 6 to 12: Take 1 tablet orally at bedtime on the night before the procedure followed by a pediatric suppository in the morning on the day of the procedure.
The benefits of this medication may only be felt around 6 to 12 hours after taking the drug. If the symptoms persist or worsen or if you experience bleeding from the anus, you should stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately.
Side effects
This medication may exhibit side effects. These are unwanted effects that a patient may experience from using the drug. Some of the side effects are manageable and do not require any medical attention or consultation with a physician. However, if the effects are adverse and cannot be handled or tolerated, you should immediately report to your doctor. Some of the side effects include, but are not limited to:
- Diarrhea;
- Abdominal pain/cramping;
- Nausea;
This is not a complete list of side effects that may occur after using this medication.
Warnings and precautions
Tell your doctor if you are currently taking any medication, if you are allergic to Bisacodyl, or if you have any other known allergies to food and medication. Tell your doctor if you have any known acute or chronic conditions and your medical history (e.g. appendicitis, rectal bleeding, recent unusual bowel movement, and intestinal blockage) that may affect or may be affected by the use of this medication.
Do not use this medication if you are experiencing any symptoms of abdominal pain or nausea unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
You should inform your doctor before using this medication during pregnancy. It should not be used for extended periods during pregnancy.
It has not been determined if this medication passes into breast milk. However, you should consult your doctor before using this medication if you are breastfeeding.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Bisacodyl or any other ingredient in this medication
- Severe dehydration
- Inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal blockage, Crohn’s disease
- Lactose intolerance
Drug interactions
Using this medication together with certain drugs may change the effects of one or the other. It is important to notify your doctor and/or pharmacist of any medication that you currently are taking or intend to use concurrently with Bisacodyl. This includes medication obtained with or without a prescription. Some of the medication that would interact with Bisacodyl include, but are not limited to:
- Antacids;
- Digoxin;
- Diuretics;
- Proton pump inhibitors;
- H2-antagonists;
This is not a complete list of drugs or substances that may interact with Bisacodyl. You should report any side effects or feeling of uneasiness that may result from using this medication together with another drug/substance.
Storage
- Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
- Store away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Store at room temperature.
- Keep in a closed container.
What if I overdose?
Seek immediate medical attention or call the Poison Control Helpline at 1-800-222-1222. Call even if there are no symptoms of overdose. Symptoms of an overdose may include: persistent nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and severe abdominal cramping or pain.
What if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If the time is closer to when you need to take the next one, skip the missed dose. Do not double up on a dose to make up for a missed one or call your doctor if you are not sure.