Bisacodyl 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.
BIsacodyl may also be used for bowel cleansing before certain diagnostic procedures, or pre- or post-operative treatment.
Take Bisacodyl 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.
Take this medicine at night before bedtime to have a bowel movement the next morning.
Swallow it whole. Do not divide, chew, or crush the tablet.
Do not take antacids, milk, or other dairy products within 1 hour of taking this medicine.
You may stop taking this medicine when you have no more constipation.
Check with your doctor or nurse on how to take Bisacodyl if you are taking it for bowel cleansing.
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)
- appendicitis (inflammation of the appendix)
- inflammation of the bowel
- severe abdominal pain with nausea or vomiting
- severe dehydration
as Bisacodyl may not be suitable for you.
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.
Bisacodyl should not be taken for more than 5 days. Habitual use of laxatives may make your bowels dependent on them.
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, and whole-grain cereals and breads 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.
Bisacodyl may cause dizziness. 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: stomach pain, cramps or discomfort; nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, dehydration, and blood in the stool.
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:
- other medicines for constipation
- water pills or medicines for water retention
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Bisacodyl.
This medicine should not be taken with antacids (medicine that reduces stomach acid production) as antacids could reduce the effectiveness of this medicine.
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.
Do not take Bisacodyl with dairy products such as milk, cheese, yoghurt or ice cream. Dairy products may reduce the effectiveness of this medicine when taken at the same time.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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