Bisacodyl
Conditions Treated
Bisacodyl, a laxative, is used on a short-term basis to treat constipation. It also is used to empty the bowels before surgery and examinations such as X-ray procedures using barium enemas. Bisacodyl is available with or without a prescription. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Possible Side Effects
What Side Effects Can This Cause?
Bisacodyl may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- stomach cramps
- upset stomach
- diarrhea
- stomach and intestinal irritation
- faintness
- irritation or burning in the rectum (from suppositories)
Usage Instructions
How Should This Medication Be Used
Bisacodyl comes as a tablet to take by mouth and a suppository and enema to use rectally. It is usually taken the evening before (tablets) or at the time that (suppositories or enema) a bowel movement is desired. Follow the directions on the package or on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. To empty the bowels, bisacodyl usually is taken orally the night before and rectally the morning of surgery or an examination. The tablets normally cause a bowel movement in 6 to 8 hours, suppositories in 15 to 60 minutes, and the enema in 3 to 5 minutes. Do not take bisacodyl more than once a day or for more than 1 week without talking to your doctor. Do not crush or chew bisacodyl tablets; swallow them whole. Do not take tablets within 1 hour of drinking milk or taking antacids. Do not eat after taking bisacodyl tablets in preparation for a barium enema. Take bisacodyl exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Frequent or continued use of bisacodyl may make you dependent on laxatives and cause your bowels to lose their normal ability. If you do not have a regular bowel movement or you have rectal bleeding after taking this medication as directed for 1 week, call your doctor. Do not give bisacodyl to a child less than 10 years of age unless a doctor tells you to. If you are to insert a bisacodyl suppository, follow these steps:
Are There Any Special Instructions
Before taking bisacodyl, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to bisacodyl, aspirin, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in these products. Check the label or ask your pharmacist for a list of these ingredients. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking. talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking this medication if you are 65 years of age or older. Older adults should not usually take bisacodyl because it is not as safe or effective as other medication(s) that can be used to treat the same condition.
Brand Names
Common Brand Names for This Medication
- Alophen® Pills
- Bisac-Evac®
- Bisacodyl Uniserts®
- Carter's Little Pills®
- Correctol® Caplets®
- Correctol® Tablets
- Dulcolax®
- Dulcolax® Bowel Prep Kit
- Evac-Q-Kwik® Kit
- Feen-A-Mint®
- Fleet® Bisacodyl
- Fleet® Bisacodyl Enema
- Fleet® Prep Kit No. 1
- Fleet® Prep Kit No. 2
- Fleet® Prep Kit No. 3
- LoSo® Prep® Kit
- Tridate® Bowel Cleansing Kit
- Tridate® Dry Bowel Cleansing Kit
- X-Prep® Bowel Evacuant Kit #1
Forgotten Doses
What Should I Do If I Forget A Dose?
This medication usually is taken as needed. If your doctor has told you to take bisacodyl regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Additional Information
What Are the Storage Conditions for this Medication?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
What Other Information Should I Know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor. Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.