The Dulcolax tablet containing bisacodyl is a medication used to treat constipation. It aids in bowel movement and is a stimulant laxative. Before surgery, it is frequently used in hospitals to clean out the stomach and intestines from the bowels. It enhances intestinal movement and helps to soften the stools. As this medication can cause some serious side effects too, therefore, you should take it only after an expert’s advice. The Dulcolax tablet is manufactured by Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc.
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About Dulcolax Tablet
Dulcolax is a laxative that promotes bowel movements. Before surgery, a colonoscopy, an x-ray, or other intestinal medical procedures, Dulcolax is used to relieve constipation or to empty the intestines.
Usually, taking Dulcolax tablets results in a bowel movement within 6 to 12 hours. Other than this, the use of Dulcolax rectal suppositories results in bowel movements in 15 minutes to one hour.
You can also speak to a gastroenterologist before using the medicine.
What is the Price of a Dulcolax Tablet in Pakistan?
In Pakistan, Dulcolax will cost between 220-250 rupees per pack of 10 tablets in 2023. It is available both online and at pharmacies.
What are the Uses of Dulcolax Tablet?
Following are the uses of Dulcolax tablets according to New Zealand Consumer Medicine Information
- Stimulate bowel movements
- Make the stool softer
- Work as an alternative to enema
- Aid in cleaning intestines before a radiological examination
- Help to empty the colon from stools before any surgery
Also, read the uses of the Bisacodyl tablet.
What are the Side Effects of Dulcolax Tablet?
Common side effects of Dulcolax tablets include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Vomiting
- Fluid and electrolyte imbalances
- Vertigo
- Rectal bleeding
Who should not use the Dulcolax Tablet?
Following people should not use Dulcolax without the doctor’s advice;
- Breastfeeding mothers
- Children under 4 years of age
- People with appendicitis
- A person who is unable to control a bowel movement
- People suffering from severe intestinal or stomach blockage
Other Details About Dulcolax Tablet
The list of important information about Dulcolax tablets includes:
I- Storage
The following are some details regarding the Dulcolax tablet’s storage;
- Store below 80°F
- Keep out of children’s reach
- Do not store expired medications
II- Dosage
The dosage details of the Dulcolax tablet for bowel preparation and constipation are given as;
Usual Adult Dose for Bowel Preparation:
- 1 to 3 tablets orally once a day
- 1 suppository rectally once a day
Usual Adult Dose for Constipation:
- 1 to 3 tablets orally once a day
- 1 suppository rectally once a day
III- Proper Use of Dulcolax Tablet
The proper use of this tablet is given below;
- Use this pill precisely as instructed on the label or as your doctor has advised.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose of the tablet. Your bowels may not be produced properly if you use laxatives excessively, and you may become dependent on them as well.
- Dulcolax tablets should not be chewed, crushed, or broken.
- Swallow the medicine with a glass of water. A bowel movement usually occurs 6 to 12 hours after taking Dulcolax orally.
- Wash your hands before and after using rectal Dulcolax.
IV- Precautions
You need to take the below-mentioned precautions while taking Dulcolax tablets.
- Never chew, break, or crush the tablet. This can damage the tablet’s coating and raise the possibility of nausea and upset stomach.
- Avoid taking it within an hour after taking antacids, milk, or milk products.
- Your age, health status, and treatment responses are all factors contributing to the recommended dosage. So be sure to tell your doctor everything you can about your medical history.
V- Drug interactions of Dulcolax Tablet
The drug interactions of the Dulcolax tablet include:
- Diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide)
- Adreno-corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone, prednisone)
- Cardiac glycosides (e.g., digoxin)
- Antacids
- Certain proton pump inhibitors
VI- Alternatives of Dulcolax Tablet
Here is the drug list that can be used in place of the Dulcolax tablet;
- Gerbisa Tablet
- Cremaffin Fresh Tablet
- BO Lax 5mg Tablet
- Freelex Tablet
- Bylax 5mg Tablet
- Julax 5mg Tablet
- Bisomer 5mg Tablet
- Laxidyl Tablet
As we do not suggest taking Dulcolax tablets without a doctor’s prescription, therefore you should consult an expert before its use. Book a meeting with a gastroenterologist right now.
FAQs
1- How many Dulcolax tablets should you take?
Adults and children, 12 years of age may take 1 to 3 tablets in a single daily dose. If you are using a laxative for the first time to treat constipation, we advise starting with the lower dose (1 tablet) and gradually increasing the amount over the next few days, if necessary.
2- How fast does Dulcolax work?
This drug may take 6 to 12 hours to start working. If your issue persists or worsens, or if you experience rectal bleeding, let your doctor know.
3- What to expect after taking Dulcolax?
Dulcolax is a laxative stimulant used to treat sporadic constipation and will take about 6 to 8 hours for showing results. There can be some potential side effects of this medicine and each patient will experience them differently.
Disclaimer: The content published on Marham.pk is for informational or educational purposes only, produced from FDA-approved literature, and does not substitute professional medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before using a prescription or over-the-counter drug, or any other treatment option.
