What is Dulcolax?
Dulcolax is an effective laxative that helps regulate bowel movements. Dulcolax can be used for treating constipation or to cleanse the bowels prior to surgical procedures, such as colonoscopy, scans, or other medical procedures. Dulcolax tablets typically cause the bowel to move in between 6 and 12 hours. Dulcolax supplements usually cause stool movements within 15 minutes to an hour.
Warnings
Follow the directions on your prescription label and on the label of your package. Inform your health care providers about your medical issues, allergies, and any other medications you take.
Before you take this drug
It is not recommended to take Dulcolax if your reaction is to bisacodyl or you suffer from:
- Stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.
Speak with a pharmacist or doctor about whether it's safe to take this medication when you suffer from any other medical condition, including:
- An abrupt change in the way you eat that lasts two weeks or more.
- Hemorrhoids, also known as anal fissures (small tears within the skin tissue in the rectum).
- Ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, or any other intestinal disorder.
- An occurrence of perforation (a tear or hole) in your intestinal tract.
- Eating disorder (anorexia or bulimia).
- If you are unable to swallow without chewing when you are taking Dulcolax tablets.
Seniors should not use rectal Dulcolax without a medical professional's guidance. It isn't known if bisacodyl can harm an unborn baby. Do not take this medicine without your doctor's guidance if you are expecting. It is unclear if bisacodyl can be found in the breast milk of a baby or whether it can harm the nursing infant. Don't use this medication without consulting a physician if you breastfeed your baby. Don't give medication to a child less than 2 years old without the guidance of a physician.
How to take Dulcolax?
Take Dulcolax as directed on the label or as directed by your physician. Avoid using it in larger than smaller quantities or for longer periods than the recommended duration. Laxatives that are used too often can cause your bowels to work incorrectly or could cause dependence on the use of laxatives. In some instances, Dulcolax is taken by mouth. The suppository can be used within the rectum. Do not chew, crush, or break the Dulcolax tablet. Suck the tablet completely into an entire cup of filtered water. Dulcolax taken in the mouth will result in a bowel movement in 6–12 hours. Dulcolax employed in the rectum may produce quicker results. The bowel should begin to move in 15 to 60 minutes following the use of a suppository for rectal. Do not consume a rectal suppository by mouth. It is only for use within your rectum. It is recommended that you empty your bladder before taking Dulcolax inside the rectum. Cleanse your hands prior to and after using rectal Dulcolax.
To make use of the rectal suppository:
- Take off the wrapper from the suppository. Do not handle the suppository excessively, or it may melt in your hands. If the suppository feels soft, you can place it in cool water or freeze it for a couple of minutes.
- Lying on your back with your right knee pointing up towards your chest Place the suppository gently into your rectum for approximately 1 inch. Point at the tip first.
- Relax for a couple of minutes. The suppository will begin to melt, so you will feel very little or no pain while you are holding it within.
- Don't use more than one suppository for rectal use each day.
Contact your physician if you are not experiencing regular bowel movements after taking this medication or if you experience constipation for more than seven days. If you're taking Dulcolax in preparation for an upcoming medical exam, be sure to follow the instructions of your doctor on when you should use the drug. Keep Dulcolax or rectal medication at room temperature away from heat and moisture.
Details on dosage
Usual Adult Dose for Bowel Preparation:
5–15 mg (1–3 tablets) every day orally, depending on the need or
10-mg (1 suppository) daily rectally whenever needed
10 mg of rectal liquid daily, as often as is required.
Usual Adult Dose for Constipation:
5–15 mg (1–3 tablets) every day, orally when needed, or
10, mg (1 suppository) every day rectally whenever needed
10 mg of rectal liquid, once per day.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Because Dulcolax is only used as required, it doesn't require a daily dose schedule. If you're getting ready for a medical examination and you have missed your dosage, contact your doctor to get instructions.
What happens if I overdose?
Get medical attention immediately or contact the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222, particularly if you suspect that someone is snorting a rectal suppository.
What should be avoided?
Do not take other medication within 2 hours prior to or after taking Dulcolax. Do not drink milk or take an antacid in the first hour before taking Dulcolax in your mouth.
Side effects of Dulcolax
Get immediate medical attention. Get medical attention immediately if you show symptoms that you are experiencing an allergic reaction, such as hives, breathing difficulties, or swelling of your lips, face, or tongue. Stop taking Dulcolax and consult your physician immediately if you are suffering from:
- Bleeding from the rectal.
- No bowel movement after using Dulcolax.
Common Dulcolax side effects can include:
- Stomach pain or discomfort.
- Experiencing lightheadedness.
- Rectal burning.
This is not a comprehensive list of possible side effects, and other effects may also be present. Consult your physician to seek medical advice on the effects. You can report any symptoms to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Interaction with other drugs
Other medications may interfere with bisacodyl. This includes medications that are prescribed and available over the counter, such as vitamins and herbal products. Be sure to inform your health care professionals about the medicines you take now and about any medication that you decide to stop or begin taking.
