Dulcolax

The active ingredient in Dulcolax is bisacodyl, which is a stimulant laxative. It functions by activating the muscles in your intestines, or guts, which facilitates the passage of stool through them and the emptying of your bowels. Bisacodyl also acts as a stool softener to ease constipation by stopping your body from removing too much water from your digestive tract.

Some inactive ingredients include polyethylene glycol, acacia gum, carnauba wax, iron oxides, magnesium stearate, povidone, shellac, methylparaben, talc, triethyl citrate, titanium dioxide, aluminum lake, ammonium hydroxide, beeswax, corn starch, and sodium benzoate.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Dulcolax. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Dulcolax:

• Follow the directions on the label or as your doctor prescribes when using Dulcolax. Never use more or less than is advised, or for longer than is advised. Abnormal bowel movements or dependence on laxatives can result from excessive laxative use.
• Dulcolax is typically taken by mouth. However, a Dulcolax suppository should be given rectally.
• A Dulcolax coated tablet should never be broken, chewed, or crushed. Drink a full glass of water and swallow the tablet whole.
• When used in the rectum, Dulcolax can yield results considerably more quickly. After using a rectal suppository, you should have a bowel movement 15 to 60 minutes later.
• Before using Dulcolax in the rectum, try to empty your bladder.
• The rectal suppository is used as follows:
• Take off the suppository's wrapper. The suppository will melt in your hands if you handle it for an extended period. If the suppository is soft, you can keep it in the refrigerator for a few minutes or hold it under cool running water.
• Place your right knee close to your chest while lying on your left side. With the pointed tip facing up, carefully place the suppository 1 inch into your rectum.
• For several minutes, remain in a prone position. Holding the suppository in should cause little to no discomfort because it will melt quickly.
• Avoid using multiple rectal suppositories in a single day.
• If, after taking this medication, you do not have a bowel movement or if your constipation lasts more than seven days, call your doctor.
• Follow your doctor's instructions regarding when to take Dulcolax if you're using it to get ready for a test.

The most common side effects of Dulcolax include:

• Abdominal pain.
• Faintness.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Dulcolax. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Red water in the toilet, blood mixed with or on the outside of your stool, and blood on the toilet paper, when you wipe, are all signs of rectal bleeding, or blood coming from your anus.
• Absence of bowel movements following regular use of bisacodyl tablets.
• Skin rash, itching, hives, or swelling of the face, throat, or tongue are examples of allergic reactions.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Dulcolax. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Dulcolax, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• A bisacodyl allergy.
• An intolerance to or cannot digest some sugars (as the tablet contains a small amount of lactose and sucrose), speak to your doctor if you are uncertain.
• A sudden change in bowel habits that lasts for two weeks or more.
• Anal fissures, which are tiny tears in the skin tissues surrounding your rectum, or hemorrhoids.
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBS), ulcerative colitis, or another intestinal condition.
• A history of intestinal perforations, which are holes or tears.
• An eating disorder, such as bulimia or anorexia.

An allergy to bisacodyl or any of the inactive ingredients in the product.

It usually takes 6 to 12 hours to have a bowel movement after taking Dulcolax tablets, soft chews, or other oral Dulcolax products. For this reason, Dulcolax might not be the best choice if you want relief right away. Ask your doctor if a bisacodyl suppository (which relieves constipation in 15 to 1 hour) or magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia), which acts in 30 to 6 hours, are viable options for you if you quicker relief.

When Dulcolax is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Digoxin
• Corticosteroids like hydrocortisone and prednisone
• Diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide
• Antacids

The usual dosage for Dulcolax is as follows: For adults and children 12 years of age and up, the typical dosage is 5–15 mg taken orally once daily; for children aged 6–11, the usual dosage is 5 mg taken orally once daily; for children under 6, consult your child's healthcare provider.

Store in a dry place at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc is the manufacturer of Dulcolax.

There are several lower-cost generic laxative tablet versions available of Dulcolax.

If you would like to stop taking Dulcolax, speak to your doctor first. They can advise you on the safest way to stop this medication.

There is conflicting information regarding the safety of taking Dulcolax while pregnant. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Dulcolax is generally considered safe to use while breastfeeding, as it is not found in breast milk. However, you should speak with your doctor first. They will recommend what is best for you.