Dulcolax - Uses, Side Effects,Precautions and FAQs
Uses
Bisacodyl is used to treat constipation. It may also be used to clean out the intestines before a bowel examination/surgery. Bisacodyl is known as a stimulant laxative. It works by increasing the movement of the intestines, helping the stool to come out.
How to use Dulcolax
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. If you are self-treating, follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Swallow this medication whole. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet or take it within 1 hour of antacids, milk, or milk products. Doing so can destroy the coating on the tablet and may increase the risk of stomach upset and nausea.
Dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than directed. Do not take this medication for more than 7 days unless directed by your doctor. Serious side effects may occur with overuse of this medication (see also Side Effects section).
Side Effects
What Are The Side Effects Of Dulcolax?
You may experience common side-effects like abdominal discomfort, cramps, nausea, rectal burning, and feeling light-headed. Contact your doctor immediately if any of these side effects worsen.
Most people who consume this medicine do not get severe side effects.
But, some individuals may suffer from severe side-effects like persistent diarrhoea and rectal bleeding.
In case of an allergic reaction to the medicine, get emergency help immediately.
The symptoms of an allergic reaction include difficulty in breathing, hives, swelling of the face, tongue, and throat.
Precautions
DULCOLAX should be used under medical supervision for the preparation of diagnostic procedures, in pre- and postoperative treatment and in medical conditions which require defecation to be facilitated.
Recommended Dose And Dosage Adjustment
Unless prescribed by the physician otherwise, the following dosages are recommended:
For Constipation
Adults and children over 12 years: Take one to two coated tablets (5 -10 mg) daily, orally or one adult suppository (10 mg) daily, rectally.
Children 6-12 years: Give one coated tablet (5 mg) daily, orally.
For diagnostic procedures or pre-operatively to achieve complete evacuation of the intestine:
Adults: Two to four coated tablets (10 - 20 mg), orally the night before the procedure, followed by one suppository (10 mg), in the morning of the procedure.
Administration
It is recommended to take DULCOLAX coated tablet(s) at night to have a bowel movement the following morning.
It is recommended to start with the lowest dose (1 tablet). The dose may be adjusted up to a maximum single dose of 2 tablets to produce regular stools. The maximum daily dose should not be exceeded.
Tablets have a special coating and therefore should not be taken together with products reducing the acidity of the upper gastrointestinal tract, such as milk, antacids or certain proton pump inhibitors in order not to prematurely dissolve the enteric coating.
Tablets should be swallowed whole with an adequate amount of fluid.
Suppositories should take from about 15 minutes to 1 hour to stimulate a bowel movement. They should be unwrapped and inserted into the rectum pointed end first.
FAQs
What are Common Dulcolax Doses?
- Box 12 suppository
- Box 50 suppository
- Box 100 suppository
- Bottle 20 tablets delayed release
- Bottle 100 tablets delayed release
What time of day should I take Dulcolax® Tablets?
It is recommended that you take Dulcolax® Tablets when you can allow 6 to 12 hours for the product to work. You may find that it is most convenient to take the product about 30 to 60 minutes before your normal bedtime in order to produce a bowel movement in the morning.
Is it safe to use Dulcolax® Tablets on a daily basis?
Dulcolax® is recommended for short term use only. If symptoms persist seek medical advice.
How many Dulcolax® Tablets can I take?
Adults and children over 10 years of age can take 1 to 2 tablets in a single daily dose. It is suggested to take the tablets within 30 to 60 minutes before your normal bedtime to produce a bowel movement the next morning. Children 6-10 years can take one tablet at night. Children under 6 years are not recommended to use Dulcolax® Tablets. Please refer to the Dulcolax® Tablets dosage information on the carton or enclosed leaflet for advice on taking Dulcolax® Tablets. See medical advice for use in children.
How do I use Dulcolax® Tablets? Can I chew or crush them?
Dulcolax® Tablets can be taken with water, but should be swallowed whole. The tablets must not be chewed or crushed. They are small and can be easily swallowed. Do not take Dulcolax® Tablets within 1 hour of consuming dairy products or antacids.
Should I take the Dulcolax® Tablets before, after, or with meals?
Dulcolax® Tablets can generally be taken at any time except within one hour of consuming dairy products or antacids. Dulcolax® tablets have a special enteric coating, which protects the tablet from the stomach’s acidic environment and ensures it is released in the small intestine (bowel) where it is needed most.
How do Dulcolax® Tablets work?
Dulcolax® Tablets are designed to stimulate the bowel and help form soft stools. The tablets are coated to prevent the active ingredient from being released until it reaches the part of the intestines (bowel) where it is needed to work.
Can I take Dulcolax® Tablets with milk or dairy products?
No. This product should not be taken with milk or dairy products. Do not take Dulcolax® Tablets within one hour of taking indigestion remedies (antacids) or dairy products such as milk or yoghurt as these could cause the tablet’s comfort (enteric) coating to dissolve before it reaches the bowel which may result in vomiting or cramping.
For additional questions regarding usage, side effects, or storage instructions, please refer to the Dulcolax® Tablets carton label or consumer medicine information leaflet in the carton, or contact your healthcare professional.
