What is Bisacodyl: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Bisacodyl overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • The Magic Bullet, Bisac-Evac, Dulcolax, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Gentle Laxative, Gentle Laxative, Suppositories, LoSo Prep, Leader Gentle Laxative, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Laxative Suppositories, Suppositories, The Magic Bullet

Generic Names:

  • Bisacodyl

Uses:

  • Treats occasional constipation by making bowel movements regular. Also treats constipation after surgery or childbirth.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Laxative, Stimulant

Forms:

  • Suppository

How it’s taken:

  • Into the rectum

What is Bisacodyl used for?

Dulcolax is a stimulant laxative used for the relief of constipation. It is also used to empty the bowels before medical procedures such as surgery, x-ray and colonoscopy. It stimulates bowel muscles to quickly empty stool. Dulcolax is indicated for use by adults and children 6 years and older. It is available as a suppository tablet.

What form(s) does Bisacodyl come in

  • Suppository

What are common Bisacodyl doses?

  • Box 12 Suppository

  • Box 50 Suppository

  • Box 100 Suppository

  • Bottle 1GM of

Common Bisacodyl prescriptions

  • Bisacodyl
    100 tablets delayed release bottle

  • Bisacodyl
    20 tablets delayed release bottle

  • Bisacodyl
    500 tablets delayed release bottle

  • Bisacodyl
    100 suppository box

  • Bisacodyl
    12 suppository box

  • Bisacodyl
    30 suppository box

  • Bisacodyl
    50 suppository box

How to take Bisacodyl

  • This medicine should cause you to have a bowel movement within 15 minutes to 1 hour.

  • Rectal routeLie on your left side with your left leg straight or slightly bent, and your right knee bent upward. Gently push the pointed end of the suppository into the rectum about 1 inch. Rectal routeKeep lying down for about 15 minutes to keep the suppository from coming out before it melts. Then, wash your hands again.

  • Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.

  • You should not use this medicine for longer than 1 week.

  • Rectal routeNever take rectal suppositories by mouth.

  • Rectal routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine. Remove the foil or wrapper from the suppository before inserting it. Rectal routeTo make the suppository easier to insert, you may use a lubricating gel such as K-Y® Jelly, but do not use petroleum jelly (Vaseline®).

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Rectal routeLie on your left side with your left leg straight or slightly bent, and your right knee bent upward. Gently push the pointed end of the suppository into the rectum about 1 inch. Rectal routeKeep lying down for about 15 minutes to keep the suppository from coming out before it melts. Then, wash your hands again.

  • You should not use this medicine for longer than 1 week.

  • This medicine should cause you to have a bowel movement within 15 minutes to 1 hour.

  • Rectal routeNever take rectal suppositories by mouth.

  • Rectal routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine. Remove the foil or wrapper from the suppository before inserting it. Rectal routeTo make the suppository easier to insert, you may use a lubricating gel such as K-Y® Jelly, but do not use petroleum jelly (Vaseline®).

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.

What to do if you miss a dose of Bisacodyl

  • Rectal routeYou may store the suppositories in the refrigerator, but do not freeze them.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

  • Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

Bisacodyl contraindications

  • You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to bisacodyl (Dulcolax®), glycerin, or senna (Senokot®). Do not use this medicine if you have rectal bleeding, stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting. Do not use this medicine if your bowel habits have suddenly changed in the past 2 weeks.

Bisacodyl warnings

  • Tell your doctor if your constipation does not improve after using this medicine for 1 week.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you have any type of stomach or intestinal (bowel) problems. These may include diverticulitis, intestinal blockage, rectal bleeding, or moderate to severe stomach pain.

  • Sweating or seizures (especially in children or older adults).

  • Nausea or vomiting.

  • Lightheadedness or fainting.

Bisacodyl interactions

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you have any type of stomach or intestinal (bowel) problems. These may include diverticulitis, intestinal blockage, rectal bleeding, or moderate to severe stomach pain.

  • Tell your doctor if your constipation does not improve after using this medicine for 1 week.

Bisacodyl side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Lightheadedness or fainting.

  • Nausea or vomiting.

  • Bleeding from your rectum.

  • Dark, tarry stools.

  • Sweating or seizures (especially in children or older adults).

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Gas pains or bloating.

  • Mild stomach cramps or discomfort.

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