Dulcolax is a drug to treat constipation or difficult bowel movements.This drug is available in the form of tablets that are taken orally and capsules that are inserted through the rectum (suppositories).
Dulcolax is a laxative that contains bisacodyl. For oral tablet dosage forms, Dulcolax contains 5 mg bisacodyl in each tablet. Meanwhile, Dulcolax suppositories are available in two preparations, namely 5 mg bisacodyl for children and 10 mg bisacodyl for adults.
In addition to treating constipation or constipation, Dulcolax can also be used to cleanse the intestines before bowel surgery and certain medical examinations.
What is Dulcolax
| Active ingredients | Bisacodyl |
| group | Limited over-the-counter drugs |
| Category | Purgative |
| Benefit | Treating constipation or constipation, and to cleanse the intestines before bowel surgery or certain medical examinations, such as a colonoscopy |
| Used by | Adults and children aged 6 years and over |
| Dulcolax for pregnant and lactating women | Category C: Animal studies have not shown a risk to the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women. Dulcolax is absorbed into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medication without consulting your doctor first. |
| Drug form | Tablets and suppositories |
Precautions Before Using Dulcolax
Dulcolax should not be used carelessly. There are several things to consider before using this drug, including:
- Do not use Dulcolax if you are allergic to this medicine or bisacodyl.
- Dulcolax should not be used continuously for a long time. If difficult bowel movements do not improve, do an examination to the doctor.
- Do not use Dulcolax if you have appendicitis, colitis, intestinal obstruction, ileus, severe dehydration, bloody stools, or severe abdominal pain accompanied by vomiting.
- Consult your doctor before using Dulcolax if you have or are currently suffering from other gastrointestinal diseases or disorders, such as hemorrhoids, gastrointestinal bleeding, or ulcerative colitis.
- Consult the use of Dulcolax with your doctor first if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
- Do not take Dulcolax tablets if you have taken antacids, milk or dairy products in the last 1 hour.
- Do not give Dulcolax to children younger than 2 years without consulting a doctor first.
- Call your doctor right away if you have an allergic reaction to the drug or have serious side effects after using Dulcolax.
Dosage and Instructions for Use of Dulcolax
Dulcolax dosage is different for each patient. The following is the dosage of Dulcolax to treat constipation based on the patient's age and the form of the drug:
Drug form: tablet
- Adults and children 10 years and older: 1-2 tablets per day.
- Children 6–10 years: 1 tablet per day.
Drug form: suppository
- Adults and children 10 years of age and older: 1 strip of adult suppository (10 mg), one time.
- Children 6–10 years: 1 strip of pediatric suppository (5 mg), one time use.
To cleanse the intestines before medical examinations and surgery, the dosage and use of Dulcolax should only be used under the supervision of a doctor.
How to Use Dulcolax Correctly
Make sure you always read the instructions and how to use that are written on the medicine package, before using Dulcolax. If you are in doubt or have special health conditions, consult your doctor to get the dosage and how to use it according to your condition.
Use Dulcolax according to the dose and do not exceed the recommended dose. Dulcolax tablets should not be used for more than 7 days unless approved by a doctor.
To take Dulcolax tablets, swallow the medicine whole, without chewing or crushing it first. It can take 6–12 hours after the drug is taken for the urge to defecate to appear. To get a quick effect of the drug, take Dulcolax tablets on an empty stomach.
To use Dulcolax suppositories, wash your hands before and after using the medicine. To insert a Dulcolax suppository, lie on your side with your left side of your body down and bend your right leg. Then, slowly insert the capsule with the pointed end in first.
After the drug is in, you are advised to remain lying down for 15-20 minutes, until you feel the urge to defecate. If you do not feel the urge to defecate after using Dulcolax, do not double the dose and contact your doctor immediately.
To help with constipation, before using laxatives, try to eat high-fiber foods and drink adequate amounts of water.
Dulcolax Interactions with Other Drugs
The content of bisacodyl in Dulcolax can cause drug interactions if used with certain drugs. Here are some interactions that can occur:
- Decreased effectiveness of Dulcolax when used with antacid drugs
- Increased risk of electrolyte disturbances when combined with corticosteroid drugs or diuretic drugs
- Increased risk of side effects when used with other laxatives
Side effects and Danger Dulcolax
The bisacodyl content in Dulcolax can cause a number of side effects, such as:
- Burning sensation in the anus
- Abdominal pain or cramps
- Weak
- Diarrhea
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizzy
Check with your doctor if the side effects above don't go away or get worse. See your doctor immediately if you have an allergic reaction to the drug or a more serious side effect, such as diarrhea with severe dehydration, bleeding from the rectum, or bloody stools.