Bisacodyl tablets and capsules
Bisacodyl tablets and capsules
What is this medicine?
BISACODYL (bis a KOE dill) is a laxative. This medicine is used to relieve constipation. It may also be used to empty and prepare the bowel for surgery or examination.
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush or chew. Do not take this medicine more often than directed.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this medicine may be used in children as young as 6 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
diarrhea
muscle weakness
nausea, vomiting
unusual weight loss
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
bloating
discolored urine
lower stomach discomfort or cramps
rectal itching, burning, or swelling
What may interact with this medicine?
antacids
h2-blockers like cimetidine, famotidine, nizatidine, and ranitidine
proton pump inhibitors like esomeprazole, omeprazole, pantoprazole, and rabeprazole
What if I miss a dose?
This does not apply. This medicine is not for regular use, and should only be used as needed.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature below 25 degrees C (77 degrees F). Protect from moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions
appendicitis
persistent constipation
stomach pain or blockage
ulcerative colitis or other bowel disease
an unusual or allergic reaction to bisacodyl, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Do not use this medicine for longer than directed by your doctor or health care professional. This medicine can be habit-forming. Long-term use can make your body depend on the laxative for regular bowel movements, damage the bowel, cause malnutrition, and problems with the amounts of water and salts in your body. If your constipation keeps returning, check with your doctor or health care professional.
Do not take this medicine within 1 hour of taking antacids or eating dairy products like milk or yogurt. These items can destroy the protective coating on the tablets and increase stomach upset and cramps.
If you do not have a bowel movement within 12 hours after using this medicine or you experience rectal bleeding, contact your doctor or health care professional. These may be signs of a more serious condition.
Updated:  
July 17, 2018