What is Bisacodyl 5 mg?
Bisacodyl 5 mg tablets contain bisacodyl, an organic compound used as a stimulant laxative to relieve occasional constipation — a condition in which bowel movements become difficult due to hard or dry stools.
What is Bisacodyl Used For?
Bisacodyl 5 mg is used for the short-term relief of occasional constipation when other measures have failed. If you experience constipation, the first recommendation is to try diet and lifestyle measures, such as increasing fluid and fibre intake and physical activity such as a daily walk or run. If bowel motions remain difficult to pass despite these measures, a stimulant laxative such as bisacodyl may be used for short-term relief.
How Bisacodyl Works
Bisacodyl works by stimulating the enteric nerves in the gastrointestinal tract, causing peristalsis — contractions in the colon — to help move stools through and stimulate a bowel movement. In addition, bisacodyl acts as a contact laxative by increasing the amount of fluid and salt that passes through stools, softening them. Its mechanism of action is largely centred on the colon; the effect on the small intestine is minimal.
How Long Does Bisacodyl Take to Work?
When taken orally, bisacodyl usually begins to take effect 6 to 12 hours after taking it. It is often recommended to take bisacodyl before bed so that a bowel motion can be passed upon waking. Many people report not feeling any effect for some time before experiencing a sudden urge around 8 hours in.
How to Take Bisacodyl
Take one to two 5 mg tablets once a day with water just before you go to bed. You can take the medication with or without food, but do not take it with milk, indigestion remedies, or acid reflux medications at the same time, as they will stop it working properly. Leave a one-hour gap between taking bisacodyl and any of these things.
Who Should Not Take Bisacodyl?
Tell your GP or pharmacist before taking bisacodyl if you have:
- Had an allergic reaction to bisacodyl or any other medicines in the past
- Signs of dehydration
- Nausea, vomiting, or severe stomach pain
- A serious stomach problem, such as intestinal obstruction, appendicitis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, or a muscle deficiency that prevents your bowel moving food and liquid along
- A sugar intolerance (the tablets contain some lactose and sucrose)
Bisacodyl Side Effects
Common side effects include: nausea, diarrhoea, and stomach pain or cramps.
In rare cases, more serious side effects may occur. Call your GP straight away if you experience: dizziness, blood in your stools, or vomiting.
Does Bisacodyl Help with Weight Loss?
Stimulant laxatives such as bisacodyl do not aid weight loss and should not be used for this purpose. For information about managing your weight safely, consult your GP.
Storage
Store bisacodyl in a dry, cool environment that does not exceed 25°C.
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