What is bisacodyl?
Bisacodyl is a laxative that stimulates bowel movements.
Bisacodyl is used to treat constipation or to empty the bowels before surgery, colonoscopy,
x-rays, or other intestinal medical procedure.
Bisacodyl may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking bisacodyl?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to bisacodyl, or if you have:
-
severe stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting;
-
a perforated bowel;
-
a blockage in your intestines;
-
fructose or galactose intolerance;
-
an allergy to yellow food dye;
-
severe constipation or dehydration;
-
inflammatory bowel disease, toxic megacolon; or
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a sudden change in bowel habits lasting 2 weeks or longer.
People with eating disorders (such as anorexia or bulimia) should not use this
medication without the advice of a doctor.
If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to
safely use bisacodyl:
-
kidney disease;
-
trouble swallowing;
-
a history of bowel obstruction, diverticulitis, ulcerative
colitis, or other intestinal disorder; or
-
if you are taking a diuretic ("water pill").
Do not
use bisacodyl without telling your doctor if you
are pregnant.
Do not
use bisacodyl without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding
a baby.
Do not give this medication to a child without the advice of a doctor.
When used to treat constipation, bisacodyl is only part of a complete program of treatment that
may also include diet and exercise. Follow your doctor's instructions very closely.
How should I take bisacodyl?
Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not
use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.
For best results, take bisacodyl on an empty stomach, or at bedtime.
Do not crush, chew, or break the enteric-coated tablet. Swallow it whole. The
enteric-coated pill has a special coating to protect your stomach. Breaking the pill could damage this
coating.
Do not take a bisacodyl rectal (enema or suppository) by mouth. It is for use only in your
rectum.
Try to use the rectal form of this medicine at a time when you can lie down afterward and hold
the medicine in. Avoid using the bathroom during this time.
If you are using bisacodyl before surgery or a medical procedure, follow your doctor's
instructions about the timing of your dose (the number of days or hours) before your procedure.
Remove the outer wrapper from the suppository before inserting it. Avoid handling the
suppository too long or it will melt in your hands.
Lie on your side and gently insert the suppository pointed end first. For best results, hold in the
suppository for a 15 to 20 minutes. The suppository will melt quickly once inserted and you should feel
little or no discomfort while holding it in. Avoid using the bathroom just after you have inserted the
suppository.
Shake the rectal enema gently just before use. Remove the protective cap from the applicator
tip. You may use the enema lying down or seated on a toilet. Gently insert the tip into your rectum and
lightly squeeze the bottle to release the enema. Hold the enema in for a few minutes and then release
into the toilet.
The rectal forms of bisacodyl should produce a bowel movement within 15 minutes to 1 hour.
The tablet form of bisacodyl should produce a bowel movement within 6 to 12 hours, or
overnight when taken at bedtime.
Call your doctor if you do not have a bowel movement after using this medication. Do not
use bisacodyl for more than 7 days in a row unless your doctor tells you to.
Store bisacodyl at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose of bisacodyl?
Since bisacodyl is used only once or as needed, you are not likely to be on a dosing schedule.
Where can I get more information about bisacodyl?
Your pharmacist has information about bisacodyl written for health professionals that you may read.
What are the possible side effects of bisacodyl?
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these
signs of an allergic
reaction:
hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:
-
urinating less than usual or not at all;
-
drowsiness, confusion, mood changes, increased thirst, loss
of appetite, nausea and vomiting;
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swelling, weight gain, feeling short of breath;
-
rectal bleeding;
-
severe stomach pain or cramps, severe or ongoing diarrhea
or vomiting; or
-
low potassium (confusion, uneven heart rate, extreme
thirst, increased urination, leg discomfort, muscle weakness or limp feeling).
Less serious side effects may include:
-
dizziness, weakness;
-
increased thirst;
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mild stomach pain, gas, indigestion;
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diarrhea or loose stools;
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mild nausea; or
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skin rash.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your
doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at
1-800-FDA-1088.
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 should I avoid while taking bisacodyl?
Avoid using any other medications within 2 hours before or after using bisacodyl.
Avoid drinking milk within 1 hour after using bisacodyl.
What other drugs will affect bisacodyl?
There may be other drugs that can interact with bisacodyl. Tell your doctor about all your
prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs
prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.
What happens if I have an overdose of bisacodyl?