Dulcolax: Fast, Effective Relief from Occasional Constipation

Dulcolax

Dulcolax
Product dosage: 5mg
Package (num)Per pillPriceBuy
90$0.49$44.18 (0%)🛒 Add to cart
120$0.46$58.91 $55.23 (6%)🛒 Add to cart
180$0.44$88.36 $78.32 (11%)🛒 Add to cart
270$0.42$132.55 $113.47 (14%)🛒 Add to cart
360
$0.41 Best per pill
$176.73 $148.61 (16%)🛒 Add to cart
Synonyms

Dulcolax is a leading over-the-counter laxative trusted by healthcare professionals and patients alike for its reliable and predictable relief from occasional constipation. Its active ingredient, bisacodyl, is a stimulant laxative that works directly on the colon to encourage bowel movement, providing relief typically within 6 to 12 hours when taken at bedtime. This makes it an ideal solution for individuals seeking a controlled, effective treatment to restore regularity and comfort. Available in various forms including coated tablets and suppositories, Dulcolax offers flexibility to meet individual needs and preferences, supported by decades of clinical use and research.

Features

  • Active ingredient: Bisacodyl (5 mg in coated tablets; 10 mg in suppositories)
  • Mechanism of action: Contact stimulant laxative
  • Onset of action: Tablets: 6–12 hours; Suppositories: 15–60 minutes
  • Formulations: Enteric-coated tablets for oral use; Rectal suppositories
  • Coating: Designed to dissolve in the alkaline environment of the small intestine, preventing gastric irritation
  • Non-habit forming when used occasionally and as directed

Benefits

  • Provides predictable and reliable relief from occasional constipation.
  • Offers flexible dosing options with both oral and rectal formulations to suit individual needs and situations.
  • Works locally in the colon with minimal systemic absorption.
  • Helps restore comfortable bowel function and alleviate associated discomfort like bloating.
  • Enables users to time their bowel movement, with nighttime dosing for morning relief.
  • A trusted, well-researched option with a long history of safe use.

Common use

Dulcolax is commonly used for the short-term relief of occasional constipation. It is also frequently employed in medical settings to prepare the bowel for diagnostic procedures such as colonoscopies or surgery, as well as to manage constipation induced by certain medications, notably opioid analgesics. It is not intended for long-term daily use for chronic constipation, which requires a different therapeutic approach and medical supervision.

Dosage and direction

For adults and children 12 years and older (oral tablets):

  • The usual dose is 1 to 3 tablets (5 mg to 15 mg) taken orally, swallowed whole with a full glass of water.
  • For predictable overnight relief, take immediately before bedtime. Do not take within 1 hour of antacids or milk.
  • Do not crush or chew the tablets, as this will damage the protective enteric coating.

For adults and children 6 years and older (suppositories):

  • The usual dose is one 10 mg suppository inserted rectally, once daily.
  • Best results are often achieved 15 to 60 minutes after insertion.

For children under 12 years:

  • Use in children under 12 years should only be done under the direction and supervision of a doctor.

Do not use for more than 7 days unless directed by a physician. Prolonged use can lead to laxative dependence.

Precautions

  • Before using Dulcolax, it is important to rule out intestinal obstruction, which is a contraindication.
  • Use with caution in patients with a history of inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis).
  • Individuals with severe dehydration, kidney disease, or electrolyte imbalances should consult a doctor before use, as laxatives can exacerbate these conditions.
  • Do not use if you are experiencing nausea, vomiting, or acute abdominal pain, as these could be signs of a more serious condition.
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use, although bisacodyl is not generally expected to cause harm.

Contraindications

Dulcolax is contraindicated in the following situations:

  • Known hypersensitivity or allergy to bisacodyl or any component of the formulation.
  • The presence of an acute surgical abdomen, appendicitis, or any signs of intestinal obstruction or perforation.
  • Severe abdominal pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
  • Acute inflammatory bowel diseases.

Possible side effect

While generally well-tolerated when used occasionally, some users may experience side effects, including:

  • Common: Abdominal discomfort, cramping, and griping pain. A sensation of urgency and loose stools or diarrhea are expected effects of the medication.
  • Less common: Nausea, vomiting, and lightheadedness.
  • Rare: Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling), electrolyte disturbances (with prolonged overuse), and rectal burning or irritation (with suppository use).

If severe cramping, rectal bleeding, or signs of an allergic reaction occur, discontinue use and seek medical attention.

Drug interaction

Dulcolax can interact with several medications:

  • Antacids and Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Taking Dulcolax tablets with antacids, milk, or medications that reduce stomach acid (e.g., omeprazole) can cause the enteric coating to dissolve prematurely in the stomach, leading to gastric irritation or vomiting. Separate administration by at least 1 hour.
  • Diuretics (“water pills”) or Corticosteroids: Concurrent use may increase the risk of electrolyte depletion (particularly potassium).
  • Antiarrhythmic medications (e.g., Digoxin): Electrolyte imbalances caused by laxatives can potentiate the toxic effects of these drugs.
  • Other Laxatives: Using multiple laxatives simultaneously increases the risk of adverse effects like severe cramps and dehydration.

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist of all medications you are taking.

Missed dose

Dulcolax is used on an as-needed basis for occasional constipation. It is not meant for scheduled daily dosing, so the concept of a “missed dose” does not apply. Do not take extra medication to make up for a missed dose.

Overdose

Overdose of Dulcolax can lead to severe cramping, abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, dehydration, and electrolyte loss (hypokalemia). Symptoms of electrolyte imbalance include muscle weakness, dizziness, and heart palpitations. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a Poison Control Center. Treatment is primarily supportive and involves fluid and electrolyte replacement.

Storage

  • Store at room temperature (20°C to 25°C or 68°F to 77°F).
  • Keep the product in its original container, away from moisture, light, and heat. Suppositories may melt if stored improperly.
  • Keep all medications out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.

Reviews

“Dulcolax has been my go-to solution for years when travel or diet changes cause issues. It’s incredibly predictable—take it before bed and it works like clockwork in the morning without any surprise interruptions during the day.” – Sarah K.

“As a gastroenterology nurse, I often recommend Dulcolax to patients for prep or occasional constipation. Its mechanism is well-understood, and when used correctly, it’s both effective and safe. The key is to use it sparingly and not as a long-term crutch.” – Mark T., RN.

“I tried the suppository form post-surgery when oral meds weren’t an option. The onset was rapid and provided the relief I desperately needed without any significant cramping.” – James L.

More info: