Bisacodyl Description

Generic Name: BISACODYL

Pronunciation: (bis a koe' dill)

Trade Name(s): Bisco-Lax, Carter's Little Pills, Dulcolax

Why it is prescribed: Bisacodyl, a laxative, is to treat constipation. It also is used to empty the bowels before surgery and examinations such as X-ray procedures using barium enemas.

When it is to be taken:
1. Bisacodyl usually is taken the evening before (tablets) or at the time that (suppositories or enemas) a bowel movement is desired.
2. To empty the bowels, it usually is taken orally the night before and rectally the morning of surgery or an examination.
3. Bisacoodyl normally causes a bowel movement in six to eight hours (tablets) or 15 to 60 minutes (suppositories or enemas).
4. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully. Do not take bisacodyl more than once a day or for more than one week without consulting a doctor.

How it should be taken:
1. Bisacodyl comes in the form of tablets, suppositories, and enemas.
2. The prescription gives you the amount to be taken at each dose.
3. Do not crush or chew bisacodyl tablets, swallow them whole.
4. Do not take tablets within one hour of taking milk or antacids.
5. Do not eat after taking bisacodyl tablets in preparation for a barium enema. 6.To insert a bisacodyl suppository, follow these steps:
(a) Remove the wrapper.
(b) Dip the tip of the suppository in lukewarm water.
(c) Lie down on your left side and raise your right knee to your chest.
(d) Using your finger, insert the suppository high into the rectum. Hold it in place for a few moments. Try to keep it there for as long as possible. Wash your hands thoroughly. The enema comes with directions. Follow them carefully.

Special Instruction:
1. Do not take bisacodyl without consulting a doctor if you have abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.
2. If sudden changes in bowel habits persist for longer than two weeks, contact your doctor.
3. Do not take bisacodyl continuously for constipation and do not take more of it than as directed on the label.
4. Frequent or continued use of bisacodyl can make you dependent on laxatives and can cause your bowels to lose their normal ability.
5. If you do not have bowel movements after taking this medication as directed for one week, contact your doctor.
6. To help prevent constipation, drink plenty of fluids, exercise regularly, and eat a high fiber diet, including whole-grain cereals, salads, fruits, and vegetables.

Side Effects: Mild cramps, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, stomach and intestinal irritation, faintness and irritation or burning in the rectum (from suppositories and enemas) can occur. Contact your doctor if these effects are severe.

Other Precautions:
1. Do not take bisacodyl without consulting your doctor if you are breast-feeding or if you are allergic to aspirin or tartrazine.
2. Do not give bisacodyl to a child less than 10 years of age unless a doctor directs you to do so.

Storage Conditions: Keep this medication in the container it came and and out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from heat and moisture.