Sodium picosulfate helps relieve constipation.
It belongs to a group of medicines called stimulant laxatives. This medicine increases bowel movement by stimulating the muscles of the bowel.
Take Sodium picosulfate exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
You may take this medicine with or without food.
Sodium picosulfate is available as a capsule, tablet or as an oral solution.
If you are taking the capsule or tablet, swallow it whole with a glass of water.
If you are taking the oral solution, shake the bottle well before you take the medicine to ensure that the liquid is evenly mixed. Use the measuring spoon or cup provided to measure your dose.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- ileus (a condition where the bowel does not work properly)
- intestinal obstruction (blocked bowel)
- serious abdominal conditions such as appendicitis (inflammation of the appendix)
- severe abdominal pain with nausea or vomiting
- inflammation of the bowel
- severe dehydration
as Sodium picosulfate may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- history of bowel disease
- previous bowel surgery
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving this medicine to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Unless instructed by your doctor, Sodium picosulfate should not be taken for a long period of time. Prolonged use can lead to excessive loss of water and cause an imbalance of salts in your body.
This medicine does not reduce the absorption of calories or nutrients; therefore it is not intended to be used for weight loss.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly. Routine tests (e.g. electrolyte levels) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
What lifestyle changes can I make to prevent constipation?
You can adopt some of the following lifestyle changes to help prevent constipation:
- Include high-fibre foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans, whole-grain cereals, and bread in your diet. Add fibre to your diet gradually to help reduce gas and bloating.
- Drink plenty of liquids. Limit caffeine intake, which may worsen symptoms of constipation by causing dehydration.
- Be active and exercise regularly.
- Do not ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.
Sodium picosulfate may cause dizziness or fainting. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: diarrhoea, stomach pain, and stomach cramps.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- water pills or medicines for water retention e.g. furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide
- anti-inflammatory medicines e.g. prednisolone
- medicines for heart disease e.g. digoxin
- antibiotics
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Sodium picosulfate.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Protect from light.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
Sign Out
