Laxatives
Bisacodyl tablets
Bisacodyl (Dulcolax®) is a common over-the-counter laxative that is used to treat constipation.
Bisacodyl comes in 5mg tablets to take by mouth. Bisacodyl (Dulcolax ® or Ex-Lax ®) works by making the muscles in your gut squeeze more often to move stool through faster. They also draw extra water into the stool to make it easier to pass.
At the drug store, these are often called stimulant laxatives.
How do I take this medicine?
Bisacodyl tablets are usually taken at a dose of 1 tablet (5 mg) once or twice a day to prevent or manage constipation. If a person becomes severely constipated it is sometimes recommended to take a single dose of 3 tablets (5mg each), or 15mg total. This dose should not be used on a regular basis.
How long does it take to get relief?
Bisacodyl tablets (taken by mouth) take about 6-12 hours to start working.
What are the side effects?
The main side effects of bisacodyl tablets are belly pain or cramps. Sometimes it also causes loose stools, diarrhea, nausea, gas or bloating.
Belly cramps from bisacodyl are usually the worse when a person is very constipated. This side effect usually goes away after a person has a good-sized bowel movement.
If you have severe belly pain, diarrhea or other side effects, talk to your care team. They may suggest a different medication.
